St. Anthony on the Lake Catholic Church and School, W280N2101 Prospect Avenue, Pewaukee, WI 53072 | Human Concerns Blog

Easter Sunday Gospel and Homily | Holy Week Photos

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 19:05:41 GMT

April 5, 2026: Easter Sunday

"Do not be afraid! I know that you are seeking Jesus the crucified. He is not here, for he has been raised just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay." - Mt 28:5b-6

Holy Week Photos (credit: Dave Lechtenburg)

Celebrating the Triduum

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 16:45:00 GMT

This week we enter into the most sacred days of the Christian calendar, Holy Week.

We honor and celebrate these holy days much in the way we have for centuries. We set aside these days and celebrate each of them in a vastly unique way.

We begin with a special Palm Sunday concert 4 p.m. presented by the choir entitled “The Lenten Sketches.” In song, artwork, and scripture, the choir sings of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, His institution of the Eucharist, His Crucifixion, and Mary’s sorrow and anguish as she holds the body of Jesus for the last time. It is a beautiful way to begin Holy Week.

Holy Thursday , the celebration of the Lord’s Supper, will begin at 7 p.m. and will include the reception of new Holy Oils, blessed by our new archbishop earlier in the week, along with the traditional washing of feet and exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. The priest and deacon will wash the feet of members of our Partners in Mercy who will acting as the symbolic twelve. The priest will then encourage the congregation to participate, washing each other’s feet as we have in the past. At the conclusion of the Mass the Blessed Sacrament will be moved to the Memorial Chapel for silent prayer and devotion until 10 p.m.

Good Friday will begin at Noon with Living Stations of the Cross lead by the youth of our parish. At 1 p.m. the celebration of the Lord’s Passion will begin with the reading of the Passion Gospel and Veneration of the cross. When you approach the cross, make a profound bow from the waist, say a short prayer if you wish, and then return to your pew. Communion will be distributed as usual from the reserved sacrament.

The Easter Vigil will begin at 8 p.m. with the congregation gathering outside the church for the blessing of the new fire and the lighting of the Paschal Candle. We will then process into the darkened church, and continue with the readings and psalms, the blessing of new Holy Water. We welcome our catechumen, Anand Patel, into full communion in the Catholic Church with the sacraments of Initiation of Baptism, Confirmation, and Communion. We conclude with the celebration of Holy Eucharist.

Please join us for all of these most sacred and meaningful liturgies this week. A Blessed Easter to all!

EASTER SUNDAY MASSES | Sunday, April 5

7:30 a.m. in the Church
9 a.m. in the Church
9 a.m. in the Gym
10:45 a.m. in the Church

Mass Intentions

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 21:19:21 GMT

Mass Intentions Explained

For many Catholics, requesting a Mass intention is a way to bring the blessings of Christ’s sacrifice into the lives of their loved ones, personal needs, or the Church’s intentions. It’s a practice rooted in deep faith and encouraged by centuries of Church tradition and law, but it’s not about “buying” blessings. It’s about participating in God’s grace in a very personal way.

The idea behind Mass intentions is closely tied to what the Mass actually is. The Mass isn’t just a ritual; it’s the unbloody re-presentation of Christ’s sacrifice on Calvary. That sacrifice brings blessings to the entire Church, but it also carries “special fruits” that a priest can apply to specific intentions. As the Catholic Encyclopedia explains, this ability to direct the Mass’s fruits to particular needs has been part of Christian practice for centuries. From the earliest days, believers have offered the Sacrifice for specific people or causes, showing just how long this tradition has been part of Church life.

So why do people request Masses? There are many reasons. Often, Masses are offered for deceased family members or friends. Sometimes, they’re requested for someone still living who is facing illness, trials, or spiritual challenges. And many people simply ask for Masses for personal intentions such as prayers for peace, for guidance, or for thanksgiving. The Church supports this practice, and canon law explicitly allows priests to accept an offering to apply a Mass for a particular intention.

It’s important to remember that requesting a Mass isn’t a transaction. Small offerings are generally tied to individual Masses, and any extra usually goes to support the work of the Church. Even Pope Benedict XVI made it clear that combining intentions publicly can be done fairly, emphasizing that this tradition is about sharing grace, not commerce.

Requesting a Mass also strengthens the sense of community in the Church. When people offer Masses, they support priests and unite their prayers with the sacrifice on the Altar. In our busy world, taking this step is more than a ritual. It’s a powerful act of trust in God’s mercy. It’s a way to lift up loved ones, personal needs, and the Church itself, all while participating in something far bigger than ourselves.

If you would like to learn more, check out Al McCauley’s Fish on Fridays video on Mass Intentions: Good Intentions - Fish On Fridays with Al McCauley .

If you would like to remember someone at Mass, please stop in the parish office.

Fifth Sunday of Lent Gospel and Homily

Sun, 22 Mar 2026 18:12:47 GMT

March 22, 2026 | Fifth Sunday of Lent

In a world where instant answers are often expected, the silence of unanswered prayers can feel difficult. In this homily on John 11:1–45, Fr. Tony reflects on the story of Lazarus to explore the tension between faith and waiting. He acknowledges the doubts and frustrations that arise when God seems distant, while offering guidance for remaining strong in your faith. Through insight and encouragement, this homily invites us to trust that even in silence, God is still at work.

How We Opened the Door...To Faith in Family Program

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 13:26:40 GMT

Opening the Door to Faith Formation

Family Program- Year 31- is closing with an interactive Prayer Fair where families have opportunities to experience different forms of prayer: Adoration, Rosary, Stations of the Cross, Visio Divina, the Examen, Guided Meditation, Lectio Divina, Divine Mercy Chaplet, Centering Prayer, the Labyrinth, and will close with a joyful time of Praise and Worship music for the whole group.

Each session of the year focused on a way we can Open the Door to Faith in our lives. We framed the year considering what might be different Keys to do that, exploring a new “key” every session.

We explored the keys through reading, reflecting and discussing Scripture, and projects such as creating a Vision Board of their family values. Throughout the year we learned through video, song, art, and prayer. Families had the opportunity to talk and pray about some of the important keys of faith that open the door to our relationship with God: Family/Community, Prayer, Service, the Catholic Church, Scripture, Sacraments, and Saints.

Each family had a Playlist of opportunities for their family to open the door a little wider. Here are a few of the suggestions for our families:

Family/Community

Read the upcoming Sunday readings before going to Mass
Help at the Waukesha Food Pantry or at a nursing assisted living facility

Prayer

Pray a rosary together.
Learn a prayer as a family such as the Memorare

Service

Bring clean, empty plastic bags, and put them in the Jim Luther New Hope Center bin in the Gathering Space
Take a look at the St. Vincent DePaul page on our website. Volunteer to serve meals or make bag lunches
Decorate paper lunch bags with encouraging messages and prayers for lunches at the Open Door Cafe

The Church

Encourage your young children to participate in Children’s Liturgy of the Word during 9:00 Mass
Learn more about The Papacy with Al McCauley’s Fish on Friday videos

Scripture

Read the upcoming Mass readings before Mass
Listen to a few of the Bible in a Year podcast episodes by Fr. Mike Schmitz

Sacraments

Visit Holy Hill. Attend Mass or walk through the Stations of the Cross
Attend Mass at a church while on vacation
Go to Reconciliation at St. Anthony on the Lake on Saturdays

A Family Challenge was offered for families to read the Gospel of Mark as a family. Congratulations to those families that completed the challenge!

Monday evening families were offered time in Eucharistic Adoration from 7:15-8:00 pm. Each class was given time during the year to end their session with prayer in Adoration. We are grateful to our deacons for helping us with this new opportunity!

It was a year full of family discussion and practices of faith which we know is how the Tradition of the Catholic Faith is passed down from one generation to the next generation. We are grateful to the Faith Formation staff, the kitchen help, the catechists, and the dozens of volunteers who make this the vibrant catechetical community it is! We love our families and are grateful for the whole community that nurtures the faith of our children, teens, and parents. It has been a blessing!

Catholic Schools Dinner

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 22:40:03 GMT

Congratulations Father Tony!

Fr. Tony is received a St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award for "dedication and contributions that have profoundly enriched Catholic education in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee" at the Catholic Schools Dinner on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

This honor reflects the dedication and care he brings to our parish each day!

From the Archdiocese of Milwaukee:

"Fr. Tony was selected because the Archbishop, Superintendent of Schools, and Director of Development felt he was the perfect priest who truly embodies and supports Catholic education. Each year, we gather a group of candidates who we believe demonstrate the kind of leadership and dedication that makes us proud.

The GIFTs Grant is a great program for Catholic education, as it provides opportunities to schools that they may not otherwise have access to.

We are very excited to honor Fr. Tony!"

Catholic Bishops "Special Message" on Immigration

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 19:57:22 GMT

he U.S. Catholic Bishops have been thinking about, praying over, and writing on immigration since the 1920s! This November they published a rare “special message” about the current situation.

Last week, we hosted Darryl Morin, National President of Forward Latino and member of St. Mary Catholic Faith Community in Hales Corners, for an engaging, eye-opening session that cut through the noise around immigration. We unpacked common myths, shared key facts, and explored how our faith calls us to respond. Through honest conversation and reflection, we gained a clearer understanding of how immigration, policy and human dignity intersect.

If you missed the session, the similar presentation and video is available at: https://thelordknowswhenwelookaway.org/ .

You can check out the St. Anthony on the Lake presentation here: https://vimeo.com/1162341905?fl=ip&fe=ec

Here is the full text of the November USCCB Special Message on Immigration:

As pastors, we the bishops of the United States are bound to our people by ties of communion and compassion in Our Lord Jesus Christ. We are disturbed when we see among our people a climate of fear and anxiety around questions of profiling and immigration enforcement. We are saddened by the state of contemporary debate and the vilification of immigrants. We are concerned about the conditions in detention centers and the lack of access to pastoral care. We lament that some immigrants in the United States have arbitrarily lost their legal status. We are troubled by threats against the sanctity of houses of worship and the special nature of hospitals and schools. We are grieved when we meet parents who fear being detained when taking their children to school and when we try to console family members who have already been separated from their loved ones.

Despite obstacles and prejudices, generations of immigrants have made enormous contributions to the well-being of our nation. We as Catholic bishops love our country and pray for its peace and prosperity. For this very reason, we feel compelled now in this environment to raise our voices in defense of God-given human dignity.

Catholic teaching exhorts nations to recognize the fundamental dignity of all persons, including immigrants. We bishops advocate for a meaningful reform of our nation’s immigration laws and procedures. Human dignity and national security are not in conflict. Both are possible if people of good will work together.

We recognize that nations have a responsibility to regulate their borders and establish a just and orderly immigration system for the sake of the common good. Without such processes, immigrants face the risk of trafficking and other forms of exploitation. Safe and legal pathways serve as an antidote to such risks.

The Church’s teaching rests on the foundational concern for the human person, as created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:27). As pastors, we look to Sacred Scripture and the example of the Lord Himself, where we find the wisdom of God’s compassion. The priority of the Lord, as the Prophets remind us, is for those who are most vulnerable: the widow, the orphan, the poor, and the stranger (Zechariah 7:10). In the Lord Jesus, we see the One who became poor for our sake (2 Corinthians 8:9), we see the Good Samaritan who lifts us from the dust (Luke 10:30–37), and we see the One who is found in the least of these (Matthew 25). The Church’s concern for neighbor and our concern here for immigrants is a response to the Lord’s command to love as He has loved us (John 13:34).

To our immigrant brothers and sisters, we stand with you in your suffering, since, when one member suffers, all suffer (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:26). You are not alone!

We note with gratitude that so many of our clergy, consecrated religious, and lay faithful already accompany and assist immigrants in meeting their basic human needs. We urge all people of good will to continue and expand such efforts.

We oppose the indiscriminate mass deportation of people. We pray for an end to dehumanizing rhetoric and violence, whether directed at immigrants or at law enforcement. We pray that the Lord may guide the leaders of our nation, and we are grateful for past and present opportunities to dialogue with public and elected officials. In this dialogue, we will continue to advocate for meaningful immigration reform.

As disciples of the Lord, we remain men and women of hope ,
and hope does not disappoint! (cf. Romans 5:5)

May the mantle of Our Lady of Guadalupe enfold us all in her maternal and loving care and draw us ever closer to the heart of Christ.

Immigration: Facts, Fiction and Faith

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 23:16:27 GMT

More than 170 people gathered for “Immigration: Fiction, Facts, and Faith,” presented by Darryl Morin, National President of Forward Latino, to better understand how our Catholic faith invites us to engage thoughtfully with current and relevant immigration issues. Many thanks to the Our Faith In Action Committee, a subcommittee of Human Concerns, for their dedicated work in organizing this event.

If you were unable to attend, we invite you to view the recording of the presentation below.

This engaging and eye-opening session cut through the noise surrounding immigration by unpacking common myths, sharing key facts, and exploring how our faith calls us to respond. Participants gained a deeper understanding of how immigration policy and human dignity intersect.

Darryl Morin has worked with leaders from both major political parties on meaningful immigration reform and is a member of St. Mary Catholic Faith Community in Hales Corners, Wisconsin.

If you would like to see the slides or other links that were part of the presentation, please follow this link: thelordknowswhenwelookaway.org . The direct link to the slides can be found HERE .

Catholic Bishops and the Root Causes of Forced Migration

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 18:53:35 GMT

The U.S. Catholic Bishops have been thinking about, praying over, and writing on immigration since the 1920s! Here we explore the 6th and final element of their publication titled Catholic Elements of Immigration Reform, published in January, 2025.

Element 6: The root causes of forced migration should be addressed

Throughout human history people have migrated. Even the Holy Family moved to Egypt to flee persecution. An effective way to evaluate sustainable migration is to recognize the root causes of migration.

The “right to life provides that people should be able to flourish in their homeland, with migration being a free choice.” However, when conditions are such that life has little dignity and survival is improbable, “people have the right to migrate.” It is the duty of other countries “to accommodate that right to the extent possible.”

Many factors cause people to migrate, including discrimination, persecution, war, famine, and natural disasters.

The bishops specify this migration needs to be addressed by and in “a meaningful cooperation between the United States and other countries.” It cannot be managed by one country.

“Beloved, I pray that you may go well with you and that you may be in good health”

—3 John 2 (NRSV - New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition)

What do you think are the prevailing reasons people migrate today? Why did your ancestors migrate to the United States?

We hope you have enjoyed the Catholic Bishops and Immigration blogs. Please continue to pray for immigrants and for our country.

Read the full text of Catholic Elements of Immigration Reform here . Read their most recent message on immigration here , or watch their video of their message here .

Catholic Bishops on Legal Immigration Pathways

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 20:47:27 GMT

The U.S. Catholic Bishops have been thinking about, praying over, and writing on immigration since the 1920s! Here we explore the fifth element of their publication titled Catholic Elements of Immigration Reform, published in January 2025.

Element 5: Legal pathways should be expanded, reliable, and efficient

Established limits on legal immigration pathways are not adequate for current social, economic, and geopolitical realities. People need more opportunities to lawfully enter the US to address labor shortages.

The current enforcement-only approach to immigration:

causes more irregular migration even though more intense enforcement efforts are taking place.
disregards the contributions of immigrants.
ignores “many legitimate motivations people have for migrating” including family reunification, educational opportunities, employment, and humanitarian needs.

Did you know that U.S. immigration courts have a growing backlog of over 3.5 million cases? Did you know that wait times are decades-long?

“ . . . For I was a stranger and you invited me in.” —Matthew 25:35 (NIV - New International Version)

Over the next weeks, please return to learn the remaining elements and ponder related questions.

Read the full text of Catholic Elements of Immigration Reform here . Read their most recent message on immigration here , or watch their video of their message here .

Catholic Bishops on Family Unity and Immigration

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 22:26:14 GMT

The U.S. Catholic Bishops have been thinking about, praying over, and writing on immigration since the 1920s! Here we explore the fourth element of their publication titled Catholic Elements of Immigration Reform, published in January 2025.

Element 4: Family unity should remain a cornerstone of the U.S. system

“Catholic teaching maintains that families are the foundation of society, and the success of any civilization hinges on the well-being of its families.”

Immigration Reform should strive to keep families together. There are families in the U.S. composed of citizen and noncitizen members, documented and undocumented relatives.
“Immigration Reform measures should be evaluated according to whether they strengthen families and promote family unity.”
Government programs and services provided for U.S. citizens should not be denied to other members of mixed-status families, penalizing a U.S. citizen because the entire family is not comprised of U.S. citizens.

Have you ever moved so that your children can have a better education or more opportunities? Some undocumented parents of children born in the U.S. have difficult choices to make. How would you feel about leaving your child behind, so your child has the opportunities and privileges the U.S. provides its citizens? Would you be willing to be separated from your child so they can have that opportunity? What impact does the separation of children and parents have on society?

“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity”

—Psalm 133:1 (NIV - New International Version)

Over the next weeks, please return to learn the remaining elements and ponder related questions.

Join us to gain a clearer understanding of how immigration, policy and human dignity intersect at Immigration: Facts, Fiction and Faith with Darryl Morin , National President of Forward Latino. St. Anthony on the Lake, Wednesday, February 4th, 6:30 - 8:30pm.

Read the full text of Catholic Elements of Immigration Reform here . Read their most recent message on immigration here , or watch their video of their message here .

Catholic Bishops on Pathways to Citizenship

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 22:39:35 GMT

The U.S. Catholic Bishops have been thinking about, praying over, and writing on immigration since the 1920s! Here we explore the third element of their publication titled Catholic Elements of Immigration Reform, published in January 2025.

Element 3: Long-time residents should have an earned pathway to citizenship

Some mistakenly believe that providing legal residency status to long-time undocumented residents significantly increases illegal immigration. However, the number of undocumented immigrants has remained between 10 and 12 million since 2005.

One-third of undocumented immigrants came to the U.S. as children.
Approximately half of the U.S. agricultural work force, about 300,000, are undocumented.
A large majority of undocumented immigrants, an estimated 80%, have lived in the U.S. for over a decade.
Undocumented immigrants contribute an estimated $100 billion in federal, state, and local taxes each year.

“Providing legal processes for long-time residents and other undocumented immigrants to regularize their status would strengthen the American economy, provide stability to communities, and keep families together.”

Have you heard of “Dreamers”? Deferred Action for Child Arrivals (DACA) provided residency privileges to the children who came to the U.S. before age 16 and have lived here continuously since June 15, 2007 (“Dreamers”). These privileges must be renewed every two years. Many of these “Dreamers” are now adults who pay taxes, own homes and businesses.

The Bishops advocate for an earned pathway to citizenship for long-time residents. When do you think it is reasonable to grant citizenship to long-time residents including the “Dreamers”?

“You shall allot it (land) as an inheritance for yourselves and for the aliens who reside among you and have begotten children among you. They shall be to you as citizens of Israel; with you they shall be allotted an inheritance among the tribes of Israel.” —Ezekiel 47:22 (NRSV - New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition)

Over the next weeks, please return to learn the remaining elements and ponder related questions.

Read the full text of Catholic Elements of Immigration Reform here . Read their most recent message on immigration here , or watch their video of their message here .

The Sacrament of First Reconciliation

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:11:57 GMT

If there is one thing in Faith Formation ministry that gives me hope for the world, it is being a witness to our children and their parents as each year, we celebrate First Reconciliation. I am always touched as I watch parents embrace their child right after he or she meets individually with the priest. And I am edified when, almost without exception, our parents follow with their own individual confession with the priest. And the family hugs again.

The kindness on the faces of the priests hearing confessions and the body language of watching the conversation between the children and the priest and between the parents and the priest is a picture of humility, tenderness and grace. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is one of the Sacraments of Healing. The definition of a Sacrament is an outward sign of our invisible God. And the celebration of First Reconciliation is a vision of God’s love poured out in forgiveness lived in our community.

We are grateful to Michelle Lukas who leads the preparation process. Our children and our families will come to this celebration well prepared and predisposed to receive grace. Michelle and many staff and volunteers have poured much heart and time into this for our families.

In Michelle’s words, here’s what the preparation process has been:

We have 61 children who will celebrate their First Reconciliation this month! Each child began preparing last school year, or earlier, by participating in Family Program and/or our parish school. They are ready and excited to receive the graces of this Sacrament for the first time, even if some may be a bit nervous.

This year, in addition to attending Sunday Mass and working to complete a home workbook together, parents and children have also participated in two parent/child sessions to prepare to celebrate the sacrament of First Reconciliation.

There were a variety of learning opportunities for both parents and children during these evening preparation sessions. Children engaged in some great conversations in small groups with catechists learning about forgiveness and how to tell the difference between sins, accidents, and mistakes.

Parents heard more about Reconciliation from Fr. Tony, giving them more tools as they helped their children prepare for the sacrament at home, too.

Children worked with their parents to understand the 10 Commandments and how to use an examination of conscience.

Fr. Tony walked through what the sacrament of Reconciliation looks like, answering questions along the way. Parents and children wrapped up our final preparation session by role playing a pretend confession together, practicing the steps of the sacrament.

Please hold these children in your prayers as they celebrate their First Reconciliation on January 17th and 21st.

If you haven’t been to Reconciliation recently and would like to receive this Sacrament, please join us on Saturdays from 4:00-4:30 pm in the Reconciliation room in the church.

We thank Michelle for her good work in this special ministry, the teachers, catechists and volunteers and the priests who are so generous with their time to prepare and celebrate this Sacrament with our families. We ask God’s blessing on our children who will celebrate their First Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Catholic Bishops on Humanitarian Protections and Due Process

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 20:06:25 GMT

The U.S. Catholic Bishops have been thinking about, praying over, and writing on immigration since the 1920s! Here we explore the second element of their publication titled Catholic Elements of Immigration Reform, published in January 2025.

Element 2: Humanitarian protections and due process should be ensured

The bishops stress the importance of furthering the common good with humanitarian and legal protection for refugees, asylum seekers, victims of human trafficking, and abused youth. This is achieved through refugee resettlement, asylum, temporary protected status, and visas.

The U.S. asylum system should NOT raise the already high bar for relief. It is not humane to return an immigrant to their country of origin if their life is in danger.
The immigration process must be subject to due process.
Noncitizens should not be dehumanized or vilified. All persons are created in God’s image.

“Restricting access to humanitarian protections will only endanger those who are most vulnerable and deserving of relief.”

U.S. asylum can be granted to refugees already present in this country. They are persons who cannot or are unwilling to return to their home country due to persecution. The persecution can be based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. The entity persecuting the individual is either a government actor or a group the government is unable or unwilling to control.

All persons in the U.S., both citizens and non-citizens, have the right to due process. Due process provides all to have the right to access legal representation, and the opportunity to defend themselves in court at a fair hearing.

Have you heard of persons not provided the right of due process, or being rushed through the court system without time to secure legal representation? Has anyone in your ancestry (recent or distant) been vilified or discriminated against as an immigrant?

“So God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them;” —Genesis 1:27 (NRSV - New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition)

“Truly I tell you, just as you did it one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.” —Matthew 25:40 (NRSV - New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition)

Over the next weeks, please return to learn the remaining elements and ponder related questions.

Read the full text of Catholic Elements of Immigration Reform here . Read their most recent message on immigration here , or watch their video of their message here .

Common Leadership at St. Anthony on the Lake

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 19:32:47 GMT

A Way to Give Back

Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back to your parish community? Do you feel called to share your time and talents in service of Christ and others?

At St. Anthony on the Lake , we believe in Common Leadership — a shared commitment to living our parish mission: LIVE. SEEK. COMMIT. SERVE.

Together, we:

Open the Door to Christ by building a welcoming, empowered community
Set goals and take actions that align with our strategic plan
Call, cultivate, and retain passionate leaders
Provide authentic encounters with Christ
Grow a parish where everyone feels they belong
Form disciples who know, grow, and deepen their faith
Live out stewardship, service, and sacrificial love
Inspire others to evangelize and live the mission of the Church

There are many ways to get involved through our leadership committees:

�� Faith Formation – From childhood to adulthood, help others grow in lifelong faith
�� Human Concerns – Promote peace, justice, and serve Christ in others
�� Prayer & Worship – Enrich our liturgical life and pastoral care
�� School – Support our mission to form children in faith and academic excellence
�� Stewardship – Lead others in prayer, service, and sacrificial giving

Common Leadership meets every other month (September–June)
6:30–8:30 p.m. at St. Anthony on the Lake Church

Parishioner Robin Hicks recalls what lead to her getting involved:

Many years ago, I came to realize that I felt a great joy whenever I was doing something centered around God. I had always had faith and went to church but this was different. I realized I needed a daily relationship with God. I began getting up earlier in the morning just to have time with God before my workday started. This was good. Then I was asked if I would lead an Alpha group, and I said yes. This too was good.

From that, I came to realize that God is calling me to be in community with others; He filled my heart at such a greater level that I could not put it into words. When the groups would end, I would feel some emptiness. I would pray about my next right step and He led me to form additional groups.

We are called to build His Kingdom. I believe He wants us to be dynamic in our relationship with him and with others. We need to keep moving, growing, and listening to His call. Last winter, He called me to discern the Pastoral Council. As the weeks went by, my heart continued to be on fire with the idea. I am blessed to be in community with these new friends on the Pastoral Council- moving, growing, and listening to His call.

If you feel called to serve or want to learn more, we’d love to connect with you. Let’s grow together as disciples and leaders in Christ’s mission.

Scott Krebs

Chair, Pastoral Council

Catholic Bishops on Immigration Enforcement

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 18:28:43 GMT

The U.S. Catholic Bishops have been thinking about, praying over, and writing on immigration since the 1920s! Here we explore the first of 6 elements of their publication titled Catholic Elements of Immigration Reform, published in January 2025.

Element 1: Enforcement efforts should be targeted, proportional, and humane

The bishops stress the importance of :

Keeping American communities safe and upholding the rule of law.

Balancing a nation’s regulation of borders and enforcement of immigration laws along with its responsibilities to uphold the sanctity of human life.

Respecting the God-given dignity of all persons.

Enacting policies that further the common good . . . enforcement measures should focus on those who present genuine risks and dangers to society, i.e. those involved in illegal gang activity, trafficking of drugs and human beings.

Limiting detention of more vulnerable people, i.e. “families, children, pregnant women, the sick, elderly, and disabled” recognizing that detention settings lack appropriate care.

Not using military personnel, resources, and tactics in immigration enforcement.

Carrying “out deportations and other enforcement actions” with due regard for families, community ties, and religious liberty interests.”

How has this and previous administrations respected the sanctity of life? How have they neglected to respect the sanctity of life? Has our country done a good job at limiting actions against vulnerable people and targeting those who present genuine risks to society?

“Render true judgments, show kindness and mercy to one another; do not oppress the widow, the orphan, the alien, or the poor”

—Zechariah 7:9-10 (NRSV - New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition)

Over the next weeks, please return to learn the remaining elements and review related questions to ponder.

Read the full text of Catholic Elements of Immigration Reform here . Read their most recent message on immigration here , or watch their video of their message here .

The Season of Giving

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 15:43:42 GMT

Hello, December...'tis the Season of Giving!

December is widely recognized as the season of giving, a time when the spirit of generosity flourishes across communities and cultures. This month, marked by holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, fosters a unique atmosphere where people are especially inclined to give back, whether through
donations, volunteering, or acts of kindness.

I am often asked several questions about ways to give financially. As a donor there is key information that you need to be aware of. St. Anthony on the Lake Parish is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization. As such, your contributions may be deductible on your federal and/or state income tax. Please see your tax professional for your specific circumstances.

Contributions must be received before January 1, 2026, to be eligible for the 2025 calendar year. Contributions can be mailed, but the postmark must be prior to January 1, 2026 . Contributions made to the parish at Mass on Wednesday, December 31st, will be credited to the 2025 calendar year. Contributions made on New Year’s Day will be credited to the 2026 calendar year.

Contributions can be made in many ways:

Placing checks and cash in the Sunday collection.
Donating online with mySAL. Many of our parishioners choose to set monthly recurring electronic giving through mySAL.
Donating stocks, bonds or partial proceeds from Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA) to avoid capital gains tax. When donating stock, bonds or partial proceeds from your IRA, you have the option to directly transfer the funds or have a check sent to us. There are several account numbers that may be needed to make these transfers possible. If you are interested in this type of donation, please contact me. I can help facilitate the transactions. Stocks and bond transactions should be completed prior to the last week in December to ensure they are recorded for the 2025 calendar year. The sale of the stock or bond needs to be completed before we can record the donation.

Want to double your impact of giving? Find out if the company you or your spouse works for offers a matching gift program. Corporate matching gift programs are charitable giving programs set up by corporations in which the company matches donations made by employees to eligible nonprofit organizations. For example, if a donor works for Bank of America and donates $100 to St. Anthony on the Lake Parish, Bank of America will double the donation by also writing a check for $100.

Thousands of companies offer matching gift programs.
A few examples include:

Johnson & Johnson: Triples donations with $2 for $1 match for current employees while also doubling
donations for retirees.

Bank of America: Doubles donation $1 for $1 up to $5,000 annually per employee.

Home Depot: Doubles donations $1 for $1 up to $3,000 annually per employee.

GE: Doubles donation $1 for $1 up to $5,000 annually per employee.

Consider checking with your company’s human resources department for programs offered by your employer.

The impact of these programs can be substantial!

St. Anthony on the Lake is extremely lucky to have very generous parishioners who have supported our mission and our covenant for over 100 years. Through your generosity we have been able to build our programs and continue our growth. We know that every dollar entrusted to us is
special, and we work hard to maximize its potential.

Thank all of you for all you do in support of this parish!

History Made Relevant

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 20:19:33 GMT

Derek Mosely and Local Connections

I know two people who can make history relevant for me. One is our own Al McCauley - especially on the Saints; the other is former Judge Derek Mosley - especially on US history. I attended his presentation “What Your History Teacher Didn’t Tell You” here at St. Anthony’s in September.

Derek reminded us how close we are to history. Harriet Tubman, who was enslaved and escaped, was alive when Thomas Jefferson died, and also alive when Ronald Reagan was born! Slavery was part of our history for many more years (246) than not (160).

I was enthralled as he shared stories from US history, often emphasizing a Wisconsin connection, exclaiming “isn’t it crazy that we’ve never heard of this?” Here are three stories he told:

The Six Triple Eight

The all Black Female Battalion managed to sort and deliver a huge backlog of mail to the troops during WWII. Derek posted about it on his Facebook page and soon received a message from a woman who showed it to her mom, and was surprised to hear, “That was me.” Anna Mae Robertson, a Milwaukee resident, pictured here with Mosely at age 98, was one of those 855 women in the 6888 ^th who processed 65,000 pieces of mail per day, and were finally recognized for their efforts in 2018.

Billie Holiday Connection

Billie Holiday performed the song Strange Fruit at the end of every performance, to call out and protest lynchings. The only known survivor of a lynching, Dr. James Cameron (1914 - 2006) settled in Milwaukee, where he founded the Black Holocaust Museum and wrote A Time of Terror; A Survivor’s Story. Visit the museum to hear more!

Paramount Records

This sign, found near Grafton, marks Wisconsin’s part in the history of Blues. It started with the Wisconsin Chair Company and ended up with a huge fire and millions of records dumped into the Milwaukee River when the company lost its recording deals due to Grafton’s “sundown town” policy.

For the rest of this story, and many, many more, go to Judge Mosley’s Facebook page . We hope to host Derek again for more great stories and inspiration, and we hope you will join us!

Judge Mosley’s presentation was hosted by St. Anthony’s Our Faith in Action team; one of many activities designed to build a more just and equitable society through encounter, education, and action. Our Faith in Action also hosts monthly Connecting Conversations. For more information or to become a part of the Our Faith in Action Team, please contact Deacon Dennis Petrie at petriedj@gmail.com .

First Sunday of Advent

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 19:47:11 GMT

Happy New Year!

The First Sunday of Advent is more than the beginning of a beautiful season; it is the start of a brand-new liturgical year. While the world waits until January to turn the page, the Church begins anew in these hope-filled weeks leading to Christmas. Advent is a season of watching and waiting, of preparing our hearts to welcome Christ not only at his birth, but in our daily lives, and in his promised coming again.

There is something refreshing about beginning the year with light rather than noise, with candles and reflection rather than fireworks and resolutions. Advent invites us to slow down, breathe deeply, and listen for God’s voice in the midst of our busy world.

Because this is a new year for the Church, it’s a perfect time to consider setting a new liturgical year resolution —a simple, intentional commitment that helps you grow in faith. It doesn’t need to be big or complicated. Perhaps it’s praying with Scripture each morning, attending one weekday Mass a month, reaching out to a neighbor in need, or returning to a sacrament you’ve been away from. Whatever it is, let it be something that draws you closer to Christ and opens the door of your heart to his presence.

Another powerful way to shape your resolution is by offering your time and talent in a new or renewed way. Perhaps you feel called to volunteer periodically, to use a skill or gift in service to others, or to find a way to intentionally and joyfully to support the mission of the parish. Stewardship, approached prayerfully, becomes a pathway to spiritual growth and deeper belonging. If you are looking for a way to share your time and talent here at the parish or in the greater community, check out our Ministry and Prayer Opportunities . You can review the Ministry Handbook to learn more about each of the ministries, and then submit your name and someone will contact you and help you get involved.

As we step into this new liturgical year, may Advent be a season of renewed hope, quiet preparation, and heartfelt openness to the presence of Christ in your life.

St. Anthony on the Lake Catholic in Recovery (CIR) Meetings

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 17:15:28 GMT

For those struggling with addictions

St. Anthony hosts two Catholic in Recovery (CIR) meetings every Tuesday at 7 p.m.

General Recovery Group – for individuals struggling with addictions.
Family and Friends Group – for the loved ones of those struggling with addictions.

CIR is a unique 12-step program that integrates Catholic Faith, Scripture, and the Sacraments into the healing process. It is designed to complement other 12-step programs, not replace them. We welcome individuals at all stages of recovery to attend either group.

One CIR attendee shared, “Being able to share the Word of God, my belief in the Eucharist, and the 12 steps at our weekly meetings, has brought me from the most painful pit of my life to a life of promise, hope and great joy. A gift by a God who loves me and continues to work on me one day at a time.”

We are currently seeking a few individuals with 12-step recovery experience to join our General Recovery team as lead facilitators .

For more information about Catholic in Recovery at St. Anthony, please visit our webpage: www.stanthony.cc/cir-groups . You can use one of the emails listed on the page and listed below to confidentially express interest in attending a meeting or serving as a General Recovery team facilitator.

Please contact:

cirfamilygroup@stanthony.cc for the family and friends group
ciraddictionrecoverygroup@stanthony.c c for the addiction recovery group

Angels Among Us

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 16:43:19 GMT

St. Anthony on the Lake Signature Event

Saturday, March 7, 2026

The upcoming Signature Event on March 7,2026 at the Ingleside Hotel in Pewaukee is a wonderful opportunity for everyone in our parish community to come together and celebrate all the “angels” that make our parish and school a truly incredible place.

This event is guaranteed to be a night to remember, filled with fun and laughter. It is also our parish’s annual fundraising effort. The proceeds raised at this event support a wide range of areas in our school, parish, and faith formation programs including:

Tuition Assistance
Technology Upgrades
Mission Trips
Family Program
Teacher Support
Classroom Materials
Marriage Enrichment
Early Childhood Programs
Outreach Activities
Youth & Young Adult Leadership
Sacramental Preparation Support

Registration is currently open on the parish website . Early Bird pricing of $125 per person is available through October 31.

In addition to attending our Signature Event, there are many important ways to get involved and support this amazing event!

We can’t wait to celebrate our parish community with you! Check our our event page for all the details!

All Saints, All Souls' and Memorial Mass

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 18:46:46 GMT

November...a Month to Remember

On Saturday, November 1, we celebrate the Solemnity of All Saints Day with one Mass at 9 am. All Saints Day is one of the major Holy Days in the church calendar. A day the church sets aside to honor the “Church Triumphant,” all who have gone before us, both named and unnamed, apostles, martyrs, confessors, and holy men and women who have lived their faith and been examples to us of Christian life. The Feast of All Saints Day has been celebrated on many different days throughout history, but was finally fixed on the first day of November by Pope Gregory III sometime between 731 A.D. and 741 A.D. Because All Saints Day is a Holy Day that falls on a Saturday this year, it is not a Holy Day of Obligation; however, we will celebrate the day with one Mass at 9 am that morning.

Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning, November 2, we celebrate the Feast of as All Souls’ Day at all
Masses. All Souls’ Day is the day when we the “Church Militant,” remember the faithful departed nearest and dearest to us. Relatives, family, and friends who have gone before us.

If you wish to have a loved one remembered at this Mass, simply fill out the envelope from your monthly
envelope packet or click here to submit names online . Envelopes are also available in the Gathering Space.

As Roman Catholics we are asked to use the month of November to remember all who have gone before us. We are also encouraged to spend time during the month visiting the graves of loved ones and offering prayers. Our Book of Life will be on display in the sanctuary with the names of parishioners who have gone before us.

On the evening of Thursday, November 6, at 7 pm we take time to remember parishioners whose funerals
were within the last year in our church at a special Memorial Mass. This past year we have buried twenty-five members of our parish. Please join us as we support those families that are still grieving the loss of a loved one.

Take time this month to learn about some of your favorite saints, many of them came from very humble backgrounds and went on to do extraordinary things.

Solemnity of All Saints Day
Saturday, November 1 | 9 am Mass

Feast of All Souls’ Day
Sunday, November 2 | All Masses: 7:30, 9:00 & 10:45 am

Memorial Mass
Thursday, November 6 | 7:00 pm Mass

St. Anthony's Award Winning Family Program

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 17:09:46 GMT

Family Program Explained

St. Anthony’s award -winning Family Program —our parish’s unique approach to religious education —begins this weekend! Offered twice a month on either Sunday mornings or Monday evenings, Family Program is designed to support families as they grow in faith together.

The family is the “domestic church,” the first place where faith is taught, nurtured, and lived. Family Program is centered on this, offering a welcoming space for parents, children, and individuals of all ages to deepen their relationship with Christ.

Whether your children attend public school or Catholic school, or even if you don’t have children but want to grow in your faith, everyone is invited to participate. Parents and children journey side by side as they explore Scripture, learn more about Catholic teaching, and discover practical ways to live out their faith.

The Emeritus Group, sometimes affectionately called “Sunday School for adults,” also meets during Family Program on Sundays at 10:20 a.m. in Room F/G . This group is ideal for Family Program veterans or any adult seeking fellowship, faith formation, and deeper engagement with their Catholic faith.

Whether you're new to religious education or simply looking to strengthen your family’s faith life, Family Program offers a meaningful, enriching way to grow as disciples of Christ. All are welcome!

Registration Options are available here!

Peace with Creation

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 20:43:03 GMT

"Seeds of Peace and Hope"

All around us we can choose to see injustice and the broken relationship between God, humankind, and creation. We also can choose to see restoration and hope. To hope does not mean to stand still and quiet, but to act, pray, change, and reconcile with Creation and the Creator in unity, metanoia (repentance), and solidarity.

The Season of Creation is a time (September 1 - October 4) for Christians to come together in prayer and action for Creation. The symbol for this year is characterized by a dove carrying an olive branch, playing the role of the blessed messenger of peace after the flood when “the earth was filled with violence” (Genesis 6:13). Pope Leo XIV provided an official message “Seeds of Peace and Hope” .

This years theme, Peace With Creation, is inspired by reflections on Isaiah 32:14-18 “The fortress will be abandoned, the noisy city deserted; citadel and watchtower will become a wasteland forever, the delight of donkeys, a pasture for flocks, till the Spirit is poured on us from on high, and the desert becomes a fertile field, and the fertile field seems like a forest. The LORD’s justice will dwell in the desert, his righteousness live in the fertile field. The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever. My people will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, in undisturbed places of rest.”

Americans on their way to Sainthood

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 20:16:30 GMT

Friar Martin de Porres Maria Ward

Did you know one American on the way to sainthood once attended Salvatorian’s Seminary in St. Nazianz, Wisconsin? Servant of God Friar Martin de Porres Maria Ward, born Mattias Dewitte Ward, was the eldest of thirteen children of a bi-racial family. Although his family was Methodist, at age thirteen, young Mattias converted to Catholicism and was ordained in 1955, becoming the first African American Conventual Franciscan Friar in North America. After ordination, he volunteered for missions in Brazil and spent most of his vocation in Andrelandia, Brazil, where he dedicated his life to the poor.

Friar Martin de Porres Maria Ward was known for his engaging personality, who loved to laugh and get others to laugh. He was a warm, cheerful, and passionate teacher. Overcoming many difficulties, including prejudice and an infectious pulmonary disease, he had great devotion to the Immaculate Virgin to whom he consecrated his vocation and to whom he turned in times of trouble. A true follower of St. Francis of Assisi, he spread the greeting, “Peace and Good”.

For more information about Servant of God Friar Martin de Porres Maria Ward, check out this website.

If you would like to learn about other African Americans with amazing and inspiring stories, join our friend Derek Mosley on September 24 at 6:30 at St. Anthony’s, as he presents, “Things Your History Teacher Never Taught You”. For more information and to register (encouraged but not required), click here.

The Exaltation of the Holy Cross

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 19:24:00 GMT

Honoring the Cross of Christ

On September 13 & 14, 2025, we set Ordinary Sunday Readings aside and celebrate the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. Celebrated every year on September 14, this year it falls on a Sunday and therefore takes precedence over Ordinary Time.

It recalls and honors the Cross of Christ—not as a sign of suffering alone—but as the instrument of salvation and victory over sin and death.

Here’s some background information on the Feast Day:

Tradition holds that St. Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine, discovered the true Cross of Jesus in Jerusalem around 326 AD.

On September 13, 335, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem was dedicated. The next day, September 14, the Cross was shown publicly for the faithful to venerate.

In 629, Emperor Heraclius restored the Cross to Jerusalem after the Persians had taken it.

This feast day reminds us that the Cross is not seen merely as a symbol of suffering, but as a sign of Christ’s victory, love, and redemption. It is a reminder of Jesus’ words:

“When I am lifted up from the earth, I will draw all people to myself.” (John 12:32).

Americans on the way to Sainthood

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 16:51:05 GMT

Julia Greeley

Do you have a devotion to the Eucharist or to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, or both? Servant of God Julia Greeley was born into slavery in Hannibal, Missouri sometime between 1833 and 1848. Freed by Missouri's Emancipation Act in 1865, Julia subsequently earned her keep by serving white families in several states, though mostly in the Denver area. Julia entered the Catholic Church at Sacred Heart Parish in Denver in 1880 and was an outstanding supporter of all the parish. The Jesuits who ran the parish considered her the most enthusiastic promoter of devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus they had ever seen. A daily receiver of Holy Communion, Julia had a rich devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and the Blessed Virgin and continued her prayers while working. She joined the Secular Franciscan Order in 1901 and was active in it till her death in 1918. Julia's remains have been transferred to Denver's Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception on June 7, 2017, as part of the process for her Canonization.

For more information on Servant of God Greeley's cause, check out this website .

If you would like to learn about other African Americans with amazing and inspiring stories, join our friend Derek Mosley on September 24 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Anthony on the Lake, as he presents, “Things Your History Teacher Never Taught You”. For more information and to register (encouraged but not required), click here .

Season of Creation

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 15:35:49 GMT

Pilgrimage of Hope for Creation

As you listen to birds singing, leaves rustling in the breeze, and the joy of children playing outside, do you hear the Spirit-filled call to renew our relationship with God, with one another, and with all of creation during this Season of Creation ?

As we celebrate the Jubilee of Hope , the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ , and the

800th anniversary of St. Francis of Assisi’s Canticle of the Creatures , we invite you to journey

with us on this Pilgrimage of Hope: fostering faith, community, and a renewed commitment to caring for creation.

Join Pilgrims from across the midwest at the Catholic Ecology Center 1:00-3:30pm

Reflections on environmental justice and advocacy
Guided prayer walk (wheelchair accessible)
Opportunities to participate in guided trail hike with examen, service, art, stations of the cross, or rosary all with an ecological focus
Reflections on the beauty of creation, environmental justice, and advocacy

Required registation is FREE with the Catholic Ecology Center . This event will take place rain or shine.

Summer Recap

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 18:14:00 GMT

A busy summer for Lifelong Faith Formation

Recently a parishioner asked me, “Have you enjoyed your time off this summer?” Yes, I enjoyed the summer! It is a special season to enjoy family and nature! But while we didn’t have catechetical classes, we in the Faith Formation department had a busy summer offering some wonderful faith forming opportunities. Here are some of the highlights:

Bible Camp
In June we had the most joyful week of Summer Bible Camp with lots of fun and learning about Heroes of Faith , hearing about saints and the legacy of our Scriptural roots as God’s people. God’s Word came alive in learning the meaning of our Bible Stories! Children 3 years to Grade 3 were with caring adult and youth volunteer leaders and our 4th and 5th graders had an experience learning Bible stories combined with exciting field trips.

Middle School Outreach Camp
Our middle school students joined other local parishes to serve God in several outreach opportunities in their “Mission of Mercy” camp, working with 10 non-profit organizations between Waukesha and Milwaukee. The week was based on the Scripture in John 13 when Jesus gave the model of serving others. The youth and their leaders packed 13,000 pounds of food for Feeding America , cleaned and painted for Hebron House , fed people at The Hope Center and offered companionship at the Catholic Home .

High School Mission Trip
This summer, a group of our high school teens went to Farmington Hills, MI for a powerful mission trip with Catholic Heart Workcamp . Throughout the week, they served others, deepened their faith, and shared prayer and friendship. They experienced meaningful service projects, including painting homes, working with children, and supporting local outreach ministries. These acts of love were meant not only to bring Christ’s compassion into the Detroit community, but also to help Christ’s presence grow in the hearts of those serving.

Adult Faith Formation
Adult formation continued with a 3-part series on the Apostles, a Summer Book Study – The Saint Monica Club and a presentation on St. Augustine. Coming up there will be a new presentation about Carlo Acutis & Giorgio Frassati , who will be canonized September 7 and we will transition from summer with the series: The Mass: The Mystery We Celebrate in September.

Throughout the summer OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults), Baptism Prep sessions and Support Groups continued to meet. Faith Formation Staff all received performance reviews and all supplies for the upcoming year were organized and catechists and were being lined up for the coming year.

In addition to all these meaningful experiences, I was able to give two presentations for the Archdiocesan Catechetical Conference on the topic of family faith formation, sharing some ideas of what we offer here at our parish with other parishes.

We are grateful for our faithful and dedicated Faith Formation staff, Taylor Baar, Tasha Baures, Lea Boyd, Debbie Kusch, Ann Grunwaldt, Michelle Lukas, Maureen Michaels and Al McCauley, who generously led all of this ministry this summer! We look forward to the coming year of catechesis, opening the door to our relationships with God and each other. We look forward to sharing the coming year with each of you!

Americans on the way to Sainthood

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 22:26:18 GMT

Good Father Gus

Have you ever heard of “Good Father Gus”? Did you know that the Venerable Fr.

Augustus Tolton, aka “Good Father Gus”, is one of six Americans of African heritage on

the way to sainthood?

Born into slavery in Missouri in 1863, eight-year-old Augustus Tolton escaped to

freedom and settled in Quincy, Illinois. Very well educated and multi-lingual, he aspired

to become a priest. Rejected for admission to every North American major seminary, he

ultimately was sent to study for the priesthood in Rome. Ordained in Rome in 1886, he

became the first openly African American priest in America. After spending time back in

Quincy, he was called by Black Catholics in Chicago to build a church there and be their

priest. So, Fr. Tolton led the development and construction of St. Monica’s Church, the

first African American church west of Baltimore. He became a priest servant to all.

Throughout his life, Fr. Tolton suffered prejudice and many humiliations and became a

model to show how transformation is possible through suffering.

Are you curious about why the church was named St. Monica’s and interested in

learning more about the inspiring and beautiful life of “Good Father Gus”? Please visit

this website.

If you would like to learn about other African Americans with amazing and inspiring

stories, join our friend Derek Mosley on September 24 at 6:30 at St. Anthony’s, as he

presents, “Things Your History Teacher Never Taught You”. For more information and

to register (encouraged but not required), click here .

Americans on their way to Sainthood

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 22:12:53 GMT

Venerable Pierre Toussaint

Would you be surprised to learn that one American on the way to sainthood helped

build one of the most recognizable churches in the United States? Can you guess the

church? A former Milwaukee Archbishop now presides there. It’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral,

the church of Timothy Cardinal Dolan! And who is this African American on the way to

sainthood who helped to build it? Venerable Pierre Toussaint.

Pierre Toussaint was born in 1776 in Haiti, where he was enslaved. He was brought to

New York as a slave, as an apprentice to a popular hairdresser. He gained his freedom

when his master died and became one of the first free Black entrepreneurs in New

York.

Pierre Toussaint did not physically help build the Cathedral, but he did raise funds for it,

and he is the only lay person to be buried within the Cathedral. He did much more than

just donate for the Cathedral, he and his wife also took in people from the street,

sheltering orphans and refugees and founding an orphanage. He attended Mass daily

and didn’t hesitate to pray with and nurse those suffering from yellow fever. He died in

1853. You can see more about his life and cause for canonization here .

If you would like to learn about other African Americans with amazing and inspiring

stories, join our friend Derek Mosley on September 24 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Anthony’s, as he

presents, “Things Your History Teacher Never Taught You”. For more information and

to register (encouraged but not required), click here .

Opening the Door to Our New Staff Members

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 18:41:25 GMT

From Your Pastor's Desk

Last week Marty Van Hulle, our principal, introduced the newest additions to our school faculty and staff. We are so very grateful that they are a part of our St. Anthony on the Lake (SAL) team! And we wish them all the best as we begin yet another school year.

It is with great joy and excitement that I would like to first announce the appointment of our new Director of Stewardship and Communications.

After reviewing resumes, cover letters, and letters of recommendation, and conducting interviews, our search committee has recommended Taylor Baar as our candidate of choice. The position was offered to Taylor and he graciously accepted. As many of us know, Taylor is our former Director of Youth Ministry here at SAL. Taylor is highly qualified for the position. He not only has his master’s degree in theology but will soon complete his master’s degree in business administration as well. He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the position. He will begin his new role as our Director of Stewardship and Communications on September 1.

I look forward to serving with Taylor as we continue to make stewardship a way of life here at St. Anthony on the Lake. Be sure to welcome and congratulate him when you see him.

News from Faith Formation

We are delighted to welcome our new Director of Youth Ministry, Deanna Muñoz! She will be leading our Youth Ministry with our 9th- 12th grade teens and as a staff member in the Family Program.

She has a background in education and coaching and has shown leadership in the schools and faith communities she has lived in and served. Deanna has been married to David for 25 years
and they have three grown children, Michael, Zachery and Gabriella.

More than anything it is clear Deanna loves Jesus, and she loves people.

Those of us who have had the opportunity to get to know her all appreciate her energy, her warm smile and easy laugh, and are aware of how much her faith means to her. I wish each of you could have read her letters of reference. They were glowing! Deanna was described repeatedly as someone “who will be a wonderful addition to any staff she joins”.

We are blessed that she will continue the faithful path that Taylor Barr made in our Youth Ministry and Confirmation preparation program. She will also be a creative part of the Family Program Team. Deanna’s pastor in her previous parish said about her, “I can assure your organization will be hiring a passionate and extremely talented missionary disciple in Deanna Muñoz”. We hope Deanna and her husband David find a spiritual and loving home here at St. Anthony!

Americans on the way to Sainthood

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 21:20:21 GMT

Sr. Thea Bowman

Did you know that one American on the way to sainthood has a connection to Wisconsin? Can you guess her name? An African American from Mississippi, she went to high school and college in La Crosse, WI. And right here at St. Anthony on the Lake we sometimes sing a Mass written in honor! She is Sr. Thea Bowman.

Bertha Elizabeth Bowman was born in 1937 in Mississippi. Her parents were Methodists, and valued education so they enrolled her in the Holy Child Jesus School in Canton. It was there that she discovered the joy of Catholicism from the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration. She converted to Catholicism at age nine, and at age 15 went off to school in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

In 1958 she took the name Sr. Thea Bowman as the first Black Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration. You can read more about her at www.sistertheabowman.com/ the website for her cause for canonization, where it states: “Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman, FSPA, left an indelible mark on her community and on her Church. She lovingly taught young people about the joy of being Christian, she challenged her church to accept her as “fully black and fully Catholic,” she embraced her suffering with a willing spirit and she called all to a living faith.”

If you would like to learn about other African Americans with amazing and inspiring stories, join our friend Derek Mosley on September 24 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Anthony on the Lake, as he presents, “Things Your History Teacher Never Taught You”. For more information and to register (encouraged but not required), click here .

Middle School Summer Recap

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 20:28:36 GMT

Mission of Mercy

Each summer I look forward to our middle school summer mission experience. This year, in collaboration with a few other Directors of Formation, I was able to introduce a new middle school mission experience, Mission of Mercy.

Our middle school youth came together with other local parishes to serve within our community. We worked with ten non-profit organizations between Waukesha and Milwaukee. Our theme this year was taken from the Gospel of John 13 where Jesus washes his disciple's feet.

As I reflect on the week we spent together, my heart is drawn to John 13:15 "I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do." This is what I had the privilege of witnessing all week.

I am so very proud of the youth who participated in this mission.

They packed over 13,000 pounds of food in one shift at Feeding America, cleaned and painted rooms and hallways to prepare for guests at the Hebron House, prepared and fed people at The Hope Center, served and provided friendship to those who live at The Milwaukee Catholic Home and Adult Day Center in South Milwaukee, and beautified Grant Park, just to name a few.

They were Christ to those they served, and they witnessed Christ in the people they served. They served with joy on their faces and with their whole heart. Our missionaries also had opportunities at the end of each day to gather in faith sharing experiences like prayer stations where they prayed with the Rosary, art and Visio Divina. They embraced Reconciliation and participated in Adoration.

After all that, we still had time to enjoy hanging out with each other and sharing our experiences while mini golfing, bowling, and hanging out at the park. I feel like I received the greatest spiritual gift through being a witness to the Holy Spirit working through our youth.

I am looking forward to planning for next summer!

Pastoral Council Transitions

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 19:02:16 GMT

From Your Pastor's Desk

Every year at this time, we discern with hope our new Pastoral Council members,
and we send forth with gratitude our outgoing ones. After an evening of prayer,
shared visioning, and dialogue led by Debbie Klimko , we discerned our newest
members. They are as follows:

Scott Krebs (returning for another 3-year term)
Flo Prospero (returning for another 3-year term)
Colleen Wahlen (returning for another 3-year term)
Robin Hicks

They will each serve a three-year term. I am confident that they will lead and serve our faith community well. We welcome them with joy and thanksgiving! On June 23rd, at another evening of prayer and dialogue, we discerned our Pastoral Council officers and liaisons.
They are as follows:

Pastor: Fr. Tony Zimmer
Trustee Treasurer: John Hooyman
Trustee Secretary: Sheri Schmit
Chair: Scott Krebs
Vice-Chair: Ellen Knippel
Secretary: Flo Prospero
Finance Council: Sandy Wysocki and Kate Spitz
Prayer and Worship: Jamie Von Reuden
Human Concerns: Robin Hicks
School: Patricia Ashley
Lifelong Faith Formation: Craig Colopy
Stewardship: Colleen Wahlen

Again, I know that our officers and liaisons will bring their faith and passion to each of their ministries, serving to bring our parish mission statement to life. We also sent forth our outgoing Pastoral Council member, Levi Frazier . We wish him all the best as he continues to serve our parish in a different capacity.
I am also happy to announce that John Hooyman has once again accepted the position as our Trustee Treasurer. We are so very blessed to have such intelligent, faith-filled, hard-working, and generous servant leaders in our parish. We are in good hands with these our newest servant leaders. Thanks be to God!

The Importance of Bible Camp

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 21:17:52 GMT

Bible Camp…Why it is Important and a Blessing to our Children

From the Heart of Our Pastoral Associate, Dr. Kathie Amidei...

“Another week of Bible Camp in the books!” said Tasha Baures, who capably led our Bible Camp this year, with our dedicated Faith Formation staff Lea Boyd, Ann Grunwaldt, Debbie Kusch, Michelle Lukas and incredibly wonderful volunteers, especially Ann Fons, Jack and Maribeth Blankenheim, as well as many fabulous leaders of every age from middle school through our retired gifted pros.

A parishioner, whose children are in their 40’s, said to me that she sent her children to Vacation Bible School as it was known at the time, the only place it was offered, at the Lutheran Church.VBS has been a tradition in Protestant churches for decades. We Catholics are latecomers to this model of catechesis. But we are catching up quite well.

Often as Catholics, we gave prayer books, statues and medals as gifts. While these were, and are, great gifts, children were rarely gifted a Bible, and certainly Scripture was an afterthought in a catechetical lesson. We weren’t taught this is a library, preserving a legacy of our ancestors in faith and how it is a chronicle of Salvation History. We weren’t shown the beauty of the poetry of God’s Word. The biggest compliment I hear about a homily is “Father made it sound like the readings related to my life.” When actually everything in Scripture relates to our life! I believe that was the point of God’s Holy Spirit inspiring the writers.

So, why is Bible Camp, as we call it today, valuable and important?

1.) It presents the narratives in Scripture as accounts that give us lessons for life today; the importance of being brave for our faith like in David and Goliath, reminding us how to listen to God and do hard things as Moses and of learning from the Master Teacher, Jesus, that the bonds of death are broken by his Resurrection.

2.) It presents these lessons of our faith through a joyful, vibrant methodology.

3.) If a child participates in most years of childhood, they have 50 Scripture stores in their minds and in their hearts laced with memories of warm relationships.

4.) It is an intergenerational experience, where all ages are learning and teaching, from preschoolers to octogenarians.

5.) It vitalizes our spirituality by combining song, story, art, games, memorization, beauty, nature, and snacks into a summer experience of learning and fun.

6.) It creates community. Relationships are formed between our Catholic school children and Family Program children, between new parishioners and longstanding members and between staff and volunteers.

7.) It is a leadership development program where middle school, high school and all ages of adults work side by side to catechize and share our faith.

8.) It deepens the knowledge, understanding and inspiration found in the Bible, God’s Living Word, meant to inspire us each and every day.

9.) It helps our children come to know our God who loves them dearly.

Bible Camp is something every parish should support, and every family should prioritize.

My 1 ^st grade granddaughter was talking to her mom after Bible camp and asked, “Mom, are we Israelites?”

It was a great week. We all learned a lot. But I guess we have more work to do.�� Hope to see you part of this wonderful week next year!

Holy Hour for Hope

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 22:03:27 GMT

Holy Hour for Hope

Friday, June 27 | 8 a.m. - 9 a.m.

St. Anthony on the Lake

As part of the Church’s observance of the Jubilee Year of Hope, on Friday, June 27 from 8 a.m - 9 a.m., St Anthony Parish will join parishes throughout the Archdiocese in celebrating a Holy Hour for Hope on the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. Come at 7:30 a.m. for a Communion Service as well!

We will reflect on the source of our hope: the self-giving love of Christ revealed on the cross and in the Eucharist.

Join us to pray for the gift of hope in our hearts, homes, Church, and world! Click here for times and locations at other parishes around the Archdiocese.

Signature Event - Thank you!

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 16:49:32 GMT

Thank you! We raised $274,569 for St. Anthony on the Lake at our 6th Annual Signature Event on March 8!

What a fun and successful evening we had at our 6th annual Signature Event “Living on a Prayer,” at the Ingleside Hotel on Saturday, March 8, 2025! A guest list of 344 of you showed up in ‘80s style and in support of St. Anthony on the Lake. The purpose of the event is to come together as a faith family: our Catholic parish, school and lifelong faith formation programs -- to raise crucial funds to keep St. Anthony on the Lake thriving and moving forward. We honored our Profiles in Faith Award winners, Bob Bluhm and Dan Von Rueden and were inspired by The Brunner Family’s witness testimonial.

Thank you to the amazing 43 Sponsors of the night who contributed $111,375.00 in sponsorships. Thank you to those who came and who participated generously in our auctions of more than 100 items. Thank you to those who participated in our cash raffle which raised $13,000.

Thanks to our volunteer emcees, Dan and Ryan Hogan and our awesome DJ Dan Paulsrud.

Thank you to all those who made the event possible —our faculty/staff, Signature Event committee (listed below), donors and many volunteers. We are a blessed community indeed and we thank God for these many blessings.

Because of you, we raised a total of $274,569.22! This is about a $100,000 increase from the 2024 Signature Event! Your generosity will support the St. Anthony on the Lake budget in these areas:

CLASSROOM MATERIALS
EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS
FAMILY PROGRAM
MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT
MISSION TRIPS
OUTREACH ACTIVITIES
SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION
STAFF SALARY INCREASES
TEACHER SUPPORT TECHNOLOGY UPGRADES
TUITION ASSISTANCE
YOUTH & YOUNG ADULT LEADERSHIP

Thank you for keeping us moving forward in our Catholic mission and faith to Live the Gospel of Jesus Christ, Seek the Lost, Commit to Worship and Lifelong Faith Formation, and Serve those in Need!

Please SAVE THE DATE for our 7th Annual Signature Event on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at the Ingleside Hotel in Pewaukee!

Thank you to our Signature Event Cabinet

Young Adult Mission Trip to Peru

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 17:28:31 GMT

What an amazing week we just spent at our sister parish in Peru! 11 young adults from St. Anthony on the Lake traveled to Piura, Peru May 23-30 and were overwhelmed by the warm greetings and generous welcome they received. We served in the community in so many meaningful ways. The young adults delivered food packages to families, visited the orphanage, built three houses, herded sheep and goats, distributed clothing, delivered furniture to newly constructed homes, visited the primary school, trade school, and hospice, and more. We also had the opportunity to drive down to Chiclayo one day, which is where Pope Leo was from. We celebrated Mass in the cathedral and ate at one of his favorite restaurants! Not many people can say they have done that. The service opportunities were wonderful, but it was even more meaningful to build connections with the people we met. Each night during our group reflections, everyone talked about the joy they witnessed in those they were serving, the community they felt, and the relationships they were building in the community. It was a wonderful experience and we are looking forward to taking more groups of young adults in the future! If you would like to participate in the next trip or know a young adult who might be interested, please have them email baart@stanthony.cc

This experience reminded us that we are all part of one Church, one family in Christ. As we return home, we carry not only memories but a renewed mission: to continue building bridges of encounter, both with our Peruvian family and within our own community.

Here are a few thoughts from some of the young adults who participated in this mission trip:

“It was an amazing experience to be able to help in the various ways we did. From building homes, to donating food and clothes, to playing soccer with the kids. I’m extremely grateful for having had the opportunity to help the Peru community.”

“The pictures and stories we hear at St. Anthony’s don’t do this experience justice, and being here in person is much more eye opening. The people were incredibly kind, and I’ve made memories I’ll remember forever.”

“My trip to Peru was an unforgettable experience that taught me a lot about gratitude, giving, and patience. My favorite moment was on the first day delivering food to families where I got to see the living conditions of the people we were there to serve. It truly opened my eyes to the impact of my role in this mission trip.”

“I will absolutely be returning to Piura to continue my service and reconnect with the wonderful people I met here, and I would recommend this trip to all people, especially the younger generations who are looking to start getting involved with the parish community”

Evan R: I feel so blessed to have had the opportunity to participate in this mission trip. It was an incredible eye-opening experience that I would especially recommend for anyone in our own community. The Peruvian people were incredibly thankful for all of our service and the donations from our St. Anthony on the Lake community!

Peter G: This mission trip was an opportunity that I’m very glad to say I didn’t pass up on. It was an amazing experience to be able to help in the various ways we did. From building homes, to donating food and clothes, to playing soccer with the kids. I’m extremely grateful for having had the opportunity to help the Peru community.

Graham H: Traveling to Peru was truly an eye-opening experience that cannot be put into words. The hospitality, people, and experiences have created countless memories, and I will cherish my time in Piura forever.

Colin R: I’m blessed to be able to go on this trip, and it’s truly something difficult to put into words. The pictures and stories we hear at St. Anthony’s don’t do this experience justice, and being here in person is much more eye opening. The people were incredibly kind, and I’ve made memories I’ll remember forever.

Marc S: After spending this past week in Peru, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the trip again. From the food, to meeting the incredibly kind people, to experiencing the culture, and to most importantly the service we accomplished, time and time again we were blessed enough to have seen the life that this place is so full of. It was an amazing experience and one we’ll all cherish for the rest of our lives!

Clara G: Being on this mission trip was such an eye-opening experience. The community of people here is so amazing, and everyone is so loving and kind. One of my favorite aspects of the trip was meeting and hanging out with the children. I would 100% recommend this trip to other people as it was truly amazing to interact with our sister parish that we hear so much about!

Macy O: My trip to Peru was an unforgettable experience that taught me a lot about gratitude, giving, and patience. My favorite moment was on the first day delivering food to families where I got to see the living conditions of the people we were there to serve. It truly opened my eyes to the impact of my role in this mission trip. I would without a doubt recommend this trip to not only adults but high school students and young adults as well as it is an incredibly important opportunity to serve others as God created us to do so.

Grace P: Spending the last week on this trip to Peru was an extremely eye-opening experience. From finally meeting the amazing family I sponsor through the Church, to dancing with children at the women’s home, to delivering food to different homes in the Piura community, I was blessed with an

amazing opportunity. This experience taught me gratitude, opening my eyes to the importance of appreciation and igniting a whole new realm of the meaning of happiness. I will absolutely be returning to Piura to continue my service and reconnect with the wonderful people I met here, and I would recommend this trip to all people, especially the younger generations who are looking to start getting involved with the parish community. The people of Piura have so much love, compassion, and joy to share with us, and I am beyond grateful that I was granted this opportunity.

Henry O: Fr. Joe mentioned how Fr. Tony and himself talked about the importance of showing us, the youth, what they have done for the community here since we are the ones who will decide how involved we continue to be, as a parish, in the future. It is something you have to see and experience for yourself to understand the impact we have on each individual and their community here in Piura.

William F: Seeing how close the parish community was involved with the families and how they were involved with Christ in their life was a heart touching experience. I am so grateful to all the staff at Santisimo Sacramento and all the families that sponsor families here in Peru as you make a huge impact on their lives. The partnership with St. Anthony has built nursing homes and trade schools here in Piura and the service that my group did would not have been possible without St Anthony on the Lake and Father Tom and Padre Joe, who started this program over 25 years ago. This Is something I would recommend to all seeking to pursue God’s will because seeing the joy and empathy of our Peruvian families was uplifting and inspiring.

Becoming Catholic

Thu, 08 May 2025 19:14:31 GMT

Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process established for the universal Church for individuals to become Catholic and receive the sacraments of initiation — Baptism, Conﬁrmation, and the Eucharist. This initiation process also involves a parish community experiencing a renewal in faith as it prepares and welcomes new members into the Church. The Order speaks of conversion as a “spiritual journey.” Centered on fostering a deep relationship with Jesus and the Church, this journey takes place through distinct stages over a period of time suitable to bring about a thorough catechesis, signiﬁcant experience of the parish community, and commitment to the liturgical and moral life of the Catholic faithful.

One’s journey of faith is unique to each person, and so the OCIA process at St. Anthony on the Lake attempts to meet folks where they’re at and accommodate the schedule that best suits their needs. We begin when you’re ready and typically meet about twice monthly. If you are interested in learning more about becoming Catholic, please email Al McCauley at mccauleya@stanthony.cc.

Pope Francis and the Lesson of the Humble Heart

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 14:16:28 GMT

From the Heart of Our Pastoral Associate, Dr. Kathie Amidei...

One thing I deeply love about being Catholic is the sense of being part of a big family. Our family is now mourning the passing of Pope Francis, who most identified as being a pastor. We live in a world that deeply needs that all-embracing pastoral love. We have lost our leader, but it feels more like losing a holy, wise, caring grandparent.

The work of mourning is remembering. To re-member is to put ourselves back together after loss. What I choose to remember are the images of Pope Francis that I treasure: him wanting to pay his own bill leaving the hotel after being elected Pope; his first words to the faithful, “Pray for me;” him moving to Casa Santa Marta, the humble smaller guesthouse residence rather than the extravagant papal apartments; him leaving his motorcade on a tarmac to kiss a child with cerebral palsy and then with that compassionate heart, seeing what others miss, acknowledging the parents who cared for this child day in and day out and who must have moved heaven and earth to get their son there. And I choose to remember his last generous act of love to come out on Easter Sunday to be with people as if to say, “I love you” one last time.

What I most hold dear about Pope Francis is his humility. Krista Tippett, the religious journalist, said, “Spiritual humility… is about approaching everything and everyone else with a readiness to see goodness and to be surprised. This is the humility of a child, which Jesus lauded... It has a lightness of step, not a heaviness of heart.” She, as well as other spiritual leaders have noted, humility is not to lower our opinion of ourselves, but to elevate our regard for others. Humility is not about me getting small but encouraging others to be big and creating a climate where that is more likely to happen. It is our spiritual work, to create an opening for others to be big, to transform the heaviness of the heart for mercy and understanding.

As we mourn the passing of Pope Francis, we do so in the context of trust of the Advocate promised in Scripture. May the Holy Spirit send us another leader so humble and compassionate! May God send us another minister of mercy! May we remember the leader who never leaves us, Jesus Christ, so humble himself, to be born in a manger and die on a cross for us. How loved we have been by Pope Francis! How loved we are by our God!

Eternal rest grant to Francis, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

Summer Immersion Trip

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 20:42:27 GMT

Divine Mercy University Mission Trip to Kenya -

providing trauma counseling and support to underprivileged communities.

Dear St. Anthony on the Lake Community,

My name is Malachi John Moon, and I grew up at St. Anthony on the Lake, where I attended grade school from 3rd to 8th grade. I was actively involved in the drama and athletic programs, which helped shape my high school aspirations. Most significantly, it was there that I received my First Communion, First Reconciliation, and Confirmation, laying the foundation of my Catholic faith. Now, all grown up, I’m excited to join the First Response Trauma Team from Divine Mercy University on a mission trip to Kenya this summer.

We will work alongside Dr. Benjamin Keyes, Ph.D., Ed.D., and the Christian ministry, Into Abba’s Arms, to provide trauma counseling and support to underprivileged communities. Our mission is to demonstrate Christ’s love through training local leaders, comforting victims, and offering a mobile clinic for mental health care.

Divine Mercy University integrates psychological sciences with Catholic-Christian anthropology, equipping us to bring healing in a faith-based context. We are being trained in sexual trauma, compassion fatigue, PTSD, and disaster mental health to better serve children, women, and families in need.

The total cost for each team member is $3,900. I humbly ask for your prayers and support to make this mission a reality. Donations can be made by visiting the Divine Mercy University website . When entering a donation amount, please ensure you include the decimal and "00" after the dollar amount. The other option is a direct Venmo donation to the following address: @kaimoon99.

Thank you for your generosity and prayers as we bring Christ’s love and healing to those in need in Kenya. If you have any questions or want to learn more, feel free to email me at malachi.moon@divinemercy.edu .

Blessings,

Malachi John Moon

Celebration of Life vs. Funeral

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 20:13:19 GMT

Dear parishioners,

You may remember my February 9th bulletin article where I shared with you a former parishioner’s grief over the absence of a funeral Mass for her friend and why I believe it’s important to celebrate a funeral.

In summary, a funeral Mass is important for the following reasons:

Though separated from the living, the dead are still at one with the community of believers on earth and benefit from their prayers and intercession.
The celebration of the Christian funeral brings hope and consolation to the living.
Funerals celebrate the life of the deceased, highlighting their achievements, personality and the impact they had on others.
During the funeral Mass, we worship, praise, and give thanksgiving to God, for the life of the deceased and the author of all life.

Many funeral homes are now offering “celebrations of life” as an alternative to funerals. Celebrations of life are becoming increasingly popular because they offer a lighter, often more cathartic opportunity to remember and bid farewell to those we’ve lost. Celebrations of life often include:

Stories or memories of the loved one.
Music.
Snacks or refreshments.
A photo memory board, a memorial table or a memorial DVD of images of the loved one.

My research and personal experiences have shown that while "celebration of life" services may offer a more personalized and potentially uplifting approach to mourning, some potential drawbacks include the potential for them to feel like a party rather than a somber remembrance and the possibility of the focus shifting away from the deceased's death. More specifically, potential negatives include:

Shifting focus: Some argue that the "celebration" aspect can overshadow the mourning process, potentially making mourners feel uncomfortable or ashamed of their sadness.
Feeling like a party: The celebratory atmosphere might not be suitable for everyone, and some may find it difficult to reconcile the joy with the loss.
Discomfort with laughter and lightheartedness: While some find comfort in celebrating a life, others may find it difficult to laugh or engage in lightheartedness during a time of grief.
Personalization can be overwhelming: The highly personalized nature of celebrations of life can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for those who prefer a more traditional and structured approach.
Potential for misinterpretation: The term "celebration of life" can be misinterpreted as a denial of death, which may not be the intention of the family.
Lack of tradition: Some families find comfort in the structure and traditions of a funeral service, and a celebration of life may not provide the same sense of closure or ritual.
Cost: While not inherently more expensive, the personalization and flexibility of a celebration of life can lead to higher costs, depending on the chosen activities and venue.

A celebration of life does not need to replace the traditional types of memorial services but can be an addition. A fitting example is an Irish funeral. A traditional Irish funeral, or wake, involves a community gathering to celebrate the life of the deceased, often including music, sharing stories and food, proceeded or followed by a more somber church service and burial. The modern Irish wake or gathering before or after the funeral is still about celebration and embracing our mortality with a bit of humor and good cheer.

Wakes and funerals are often seen as solemn, formal events, but they don't have to be limited to a single tone or approach. In fact, Rite of a Funeral of the Catholic Church states, “Whenever possible, ministers should involve the family in planning the funeral rites: in the choice of texts and rites provided in the ritual, in the selection of music for the rites and in the designation of liturgical ministers.” The Germans say, “Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater.” In other words, avoid discarding something valuable when trying to get rid of something unwanted or undesirable. Memorialize the deceased with the structure, rituals, and traditions of a funeral service, while incorporating an uplifting approach to mourning and celebrating the life of your loved one.

Celebrating a Funeral Mass

Sun, 09 Feb 2025 20:18:37 GMT

Dear Parishioners,

Recently, a member of our parish inquired about the funeral Mass for a former parishioner whom she had known for years. She had hoped there would be a Mass, but one was not planned. This sentiment has been shared with me many times, which brings me to my topic, “Why is it important to celebrate a funeral?”

The Rite of a Funeral of the Catholic Church states: "At the death of a Christian, whose life of faith was begun in the waters of Baptism and strengthened at the Eucharistic table, the Church intercedes on behalf of the deceased because of its confident belief that death is not the end, nor does it break the bonds forged in life. The Church also ministers to the sorrowing and consoles them in the funeral rites with the comforting Word of God and the Sacrament of the Eucharist" (Order of Christian Funerals, no. 4).

This Rite highlights two of the three sacraments of Christian Initiation: Baptism and Eucharist. Baptism is considered the primary act that signifies becoming a member of a church or parish, as it is a public declaration of faith in Christ and symbolizes being incorporated into the Christian community through the act of being immersed in water. This sacrament involves a commitment by parents, godparents and the church family to raise a child in the faith. The Church rejoices because we have welcomed a new member and because we have once again celebrated the mysteries of God's love for us and of our salvation.

While our bond to one another starts with Baptism, it is further strengthened around the Eucharistic table. The Eucharist creates a profound sense of unity, as by sharing in the same body of Christ, we are considered members of the same "body" and are therefore called to love and serve one another deeply, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility within the parish. When we break bread and eat together, the Eucharist brings the Catholic church together as a community.

The Rite of a Funeral continues, “… death is not the end, nor does it break the bonds forged in life.” Therefore, our commitment to members of our faith community does not end with death. As The Rite of a Funeral states, “Though separated from the living, the dead are still at one with the community of believers on earth and benefit from their prayers and intercession. At the rite of final commendation and farewell, the community acknowledges the reality of separation and commends the deceased to God. In this way it recognizes the spiritual bond that still exists between the living and the dead and proclaims its belief that all the faithful will be raised up and reunited in the new heavens and a new earth, where deal will be no more.” (Order of Christian Funerals, no. 6)

“The celebration of the Christian funeral brings hope and consolation to the living” (Order of Christian Funerals, no. 7). Funerals offer a communal space where friends and family can gather to support each other. This support is vital, especially in the weeks and months following the funeral, as mourners adapt to life without the deceased. “If one member suffers in the body of Christ, which is the Church, all the members suffer with that member” (1Corrinthians 12:26). “The Church calls each member of Christ’s Body – priest, deacon, layperson – to participate in the ministry of consolation: to care for the dying, to pray for the dead, to comfort those who mourn” (Order of Christian Funerals, no. 8).

Lastly, funerals celebrate the life of the deceased, highlighting their achievements, personality and the impact they had on others. This can include sharing stories, memories, and tributes that affirm the value of the person’s life. We worship, praise, and give thanksgiving to God, for the life of the deceased and the author of all life.

Our Common Home and Us

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 19:35:40 GMT

Our Common Home and Us: Air, Water and Food

Imagine testing your 4 year old child for lead poisoning, and discovering that her levels were so high she needed immediate hospitalization. Imagine witnessing your 8 year old grandson die during an asthma attack. Imagine buying the bulk of your “groceries” from a corner liquor store because a grocery store - and fresh produce - is not within walking distance. These are the experiences our friends - heroes - from the MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary (MBHS) shared with us during the recent “Our Common Home and Us: Air, Water, and Food” event here at St. Anthony’s. They also shared about the successful garden program, the goal of providing lead tests and kits to 1000+ children, and the improvement in air quality since 1990. We learned that our faith provides wonderful grounding for an “integral ecology” in which we care for one another and our environment. Participants felt moved, inspired, and empowered.

Want to learn more and get involved?

Watch these brief clips:
Catholic’s and Environmental Justice
Food
Water
Air
Heat
Join us for “ Our Common Home and Us: Movie Night ” on April 2 at 6:30pm
Help MBHS Lead Coordinator achieve her goal of helping 1000+ children receive lead testing and lead mitigation kits! ~$120 / kit
Help MBHS Garden Team build new raised gardens to continue providing nutritious, local food for the community!*
Visit MBHS with others from St. Anthony’s on March 22 (registration required - stay tuned for information in the Human Concerns Lenten Calendar)
Check out Catholic Ecology Center
Check out MacCanon Brown Homeless Sanctuary

How are you being Called, Gifted and Sent by God?

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 15:00:14 GMT

By Marty Van Hulle, Principal

Hans Ur von Balthasar is quoted as saying: “Who you are is God's gift to you, what you make of yourself is your gift to God.”

During this year’s parish Annual Renewal, Fr. Tony has asked all of us to prayerfully answer the question, “How are you being Called, Gifted and Sent by God?” Called, Gifted, and Sent is also our school theme and it reminds us of what it means to live a Stewardship Way of Life , always looking to make something out of what we have been given to glorify God.

Here at SAL we see so many who exemplify a Stewardship Way of Life . The success of Mostaccioli Madness this past weekend is just one example. It is inspiring to see so many people step forward and make a return of the things they’ve been given - from the talent of organizing and carrying out the event, to the gift of contributing to an auction basket. Additionally, our 8th grade students did a great job of serving patrons on Saturday night and of modeling the weekly manners on which we focus.

Our students continually exemplify a Stewardship Way of Life in all they do. From their daily focus on being good stewards of our school building to planning and carrying out our weekly school mass plans, I witness firsthand their sharing of gifts.

The following outlines how the USCCB describes a Stewardship Way of Life:

Gratitude : Receiving God's gifts with gratitude

Responsibility : Cultivating God's gifts responsibly

Sharing : Sharing God's gifts with others in a just and loving manner

Return : Returning God's gifts with increase

Cooperation : Cooperating with God in the redemption of others and oneself

Guidance : Looking to the life and teachings of Jesus for guidance

As we head toward Thanksgiving, let’s take a moment to recognize the Stewardship Way of Life around us, and maybe be inspired to make a return to God in ways we hadn’t otherwise considered. Please enjoy this video from school parent, Charlotte Carlson, who shares how she has been Called, Gifted and Sent at St. Anthony.

Our Lady of Czestochowa

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 15:14:39 GMT

Let me begin by saying I am delighted to be your associate pastor. I have been warmly welcomed and certainly invited to join many of you for dinner and great conversation. I am learning about the history and the people of St. Anthony on the Lake Parish. This parish has a rich heritage which has formed the community. Each of you speak about St. Anthony with pride and enthusiasm. All of you pray well thus it is a joy to lead you in prayer. Speaking of prayer, many of you have asked, “Why your devotion to Our Lady of Czestochowa?” I am going to tell you the story.

In June of 2003, I was asked by the Vicar of Clergy to consider going to a southside parish called St. Veronica. It was a parish of 800 families with a school. I had been the administrator of St. Teresa in Eagle, Wisconsin and enjoyed that assignment very much. I accepted my new assignment to St. Veronica Parish and began a new journey of my priesthood. St. Veronica was my first pastorate at age 39. At that time, I had dark hair filled with more energy than you could imagine and very naïve of what it meant to be a pastor. When I arrived to the parish my desk was piled high with “stuff” that needed attention. In fact, the secretary handed me a letter stated that I was being summoned to the Archdiocesan Offices because my school of 350 children was being merged with five other schools. This presented some challenges for me. My school was selected to be the place to house the school, and the other pastors and parishes struggled as their schools closed and mine was the one left open.

The parish financially was struggling. I had to manage a deficit budget and strengthen relationships with parishioners to create a new direction for the parish. I was completely overwhelmed. My prayer became, “Why have you brought me to this parish and why do I have to go through this situation?” Feeling quite abandoned by God and very wearied, I was down and out. Well friends, God never abandoned me, he heard my plea and quite miraculously his mother was about to step in and assist one of her son’s priests.

It was right around this time of the year. It was a Sunday Mass. I had finished communion standing at the altar combining the Body of Christ into one ciborium and moving to the tabernacle, I genuflected, placed the ciborium in the tabernacle and there was a flash of light. I looked up and Our Lady of Czestochowa appeared to me. I didn’t know who she was at that time. Yes, she spoke to me, she said, “Take care, everything will be alright, I want you to dedicate this church in my name.” I didn’t say anything, I was awe struck. I walked to my chair and the server sitting next to me said, “Are you alright?” I said, “Yes, why?” He said, “It looks like you saw a ghost.” I simply didn’t know what to say. I finished Mass but knew something happened.

A week had past, I finally had the courage to tell a priest friend of mine about the incident. We both agreed that it was the blessed Mother. He told me to follow her instructions. My question to him was, “Who is she?” All I remember to describe her were the scars on her face. My priest friend told me to contact the Rosary Evangelization Apostolate. I contacted Dick and Terry Boldin who are the leaders of the group. I shared my experience, and they said, “Father you need to follow our Blessed Mother’s instructions and dedicate St. Veronica Parish to our Lady.” I told them I will but who is she? Dick said, “I know of only one image with the Blessed Mothers cheeks bearing scars, Our Lady of Czestochowa.” I immediately began to research who she is and her history. I knew being on the south side of Milwaukee and having a great number of Polish families that people will know who she is and why we are dedicating this church to her. This led to the next step, how does one dedicate a church to our Lady?

In June 2004, I spoke to Dick and Terry again and I asked them what I should do to dedicate the parish to our Lady. Dick suggested that a beautiful icon be painted of our Lady. He knew an artist from Poland that could paint this icon. Remember, we were financially in bad shape. I could not ask the parish to buy an icon of our Lady amid a financial crisis and everything else that was happening in the parish. I turned to our Lady and said, “You have asked me to do this, and I am afraid, help me.” Dick called me several days later and told me that he had a donor who wants to remain anonymous. The icon was painted and arrived at the parish in October of 2004. I needed to decide when to dedicate the parish to our Lady. The staff and I agreed to do it on Dec. 8, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. The staff and I agreed to take one of the side altars and prominently display the icon. We hung the icon a week before the dedication, I had it covered hiding the image until Dec. 8.

Dec. 8 arrived, we celebrated the Feast Day and following Mass I spoke of the icon and the revelation that had occurred. I had the beautiful icon uncovered and we all prayed the Hail Mary together as a community. Friends, the community began to grow and flourish. Financially, the parish began to thrive, and I embraced a joy and enthusiasm that I had never had before. The Blessed Mother’s promise was fulfilled, and I feel her presence to this very day. I am a man of great hope knowing that when I’ve dedicated my parishes to our Lady of Czestochowa they thrive and grow and experience joy and enthusiasm because “everything will be alright.” I am an eternal optimist. The projects of the parish will be accomplished and people who visit St. Anthony on the Lake will experience joy. Our Lady bestows love and joy upon our parish. All it takes is a small mustard seed of faith to see that all will be accomplished.

Prayer to Our Lady of Czestochowa (This prayer should be said each day upon arising)

Holy Mother of Czestochowa, thou art full of grace, goodness, and mercy. I consecrate to thee all my thoughts, words, and actions—my soul and body. I beseech thy blessings and especially prayers for my salvation.

Today, I consecrate myself to Thee, Good Mother, totally—with body and soul amid joy and sufferings to obtain for myself and others thy blessings on this earth and eternal life in Heaven. Amen.

Anointing of the Sick by Fr. Mark Payne

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 16:52:43 GMT

For many Catholics, we think of the Church and the priest being present at major moments in our lives. We think of our family bringing us to the Church to be baptized, usually as an infant. We think of the priest being present to witness a marriage and to declare people husband and wife. And we think of the priest being present at the bedside of a dying relative to anoint them and pray for them as they move on to eternal life. These are great images, and yet the final one is not how the Church imagines that process. This is not to say that the Church and the priest do not accompany our families as our loved ones pass, but the anointing ideally should not happen in the last moments, but beforehand. Particularly to help ensure that the priest is able to anoint them, the sacrament should not be delayed to the point of death, and the Church has consistently affirmed this throughout history.

The Church explained this Sacrament in detail at the Council of Trent in the 1500s. They declared that “this anointing is to be given to the sick, especially those who … appear to have reached the end of their life,” meaning that this is given to anyone who is sick, with an eye to those approaching the end of their lives. It is later clarified that it “strengthens the soul” in order to “more easily bear the trials and hardships of sickness, more easily resist the temptations of the devil … and sometimes regain bodily health, if this is expedient for the health of the soul.” Someone who is about to pass and go to Christ will not be bearing the sickness anymore; they will often, especially when they are not present mentally, be unable to sin or be tempted; and they will practically never regain bodily health. Therefore, waiting until the point of death for anointing actually rejects what the Sacrament does and deprives the person of grace that they could receive and would help them in their time of weakness.

More recently, at the Second Vatican Council in the 1960s, this idea is stated even more firmly. The Council Fathers write that “anointing of the sick is not a sacrament for those only who are at the point of death.” They continue: “As soon as any one of the faithful begins to be in danger of death from sickness or old age,” they may receive the Sacrament. The introduction to the Rite of Anointing of the Sick states that someone may be anointed before surgery, or that the elderly may be anointed “if they have become notably weakened even though no serious illness is present.” It includes the instruction that the faithful “should not follow the wrongful practice of delaying the reception of the sacrament.” The Church is clear that people should be anointed earlier in their illness rather than minutes before their final breath.

While it is important to know that this is what the Church teaches us, it amounts to little if we cannot apply it to our lives. The basic application of this is to not wait to ask for your loved ones to be anointed. Particularly in the case of extended illness or the decline of old age, you should ask for anointing as early as reasonable. One concrete example is when one is admitted to the hospital or nursing home. By federal law, hospitals and nursing homes cannot tell us when your loved one has been admitted, you must. In almost all cases, as soon as you are admitted to one of these facilities, you can and should be anointed, and so shouldn’t wait. Especially in the case of the elderly, it is very possible that they will have very limited ability to sin once in a home, and so could be anointed once they enter and then would need only prayers and the Eucharist as Viaticum, as food to strengthen them as they cross into eternal life. So please, for the sake of our priests and your loved ones, as soon as they are admitted to any medical facility, ask for anointing so that you and the priest can arrange a time for them to come and administer the Sacrament. Also, if someone is anticipating a procedure, don’t be afraid to approach the priest before said procedure in order to receive an anointing, and they will gladly anoint you and pray for a successful procedure.

Reflections from Parishioner Deacon John Murray ordained to the permanent diaconate on Sept. 7

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 14:24:46 GMT

On September 7 I was ordained a deacon. My ordination was a wonderful milestone on a journey of love for me and for my wife Missy. We both believe St. Anthony on the Lake has been an integral part of this journey.

Several years ago, through an Alpha program sponsored by the parish, I started to feel and appreciate God's great love for me. That experience awakened a desire in me to share His love with others. Missy and I both became more active in the parish--stewardship, finance council, lectors, and eucharistic ministers. But I still felt a desire to do more. That led us to consider and explore the diaconate.

The deacon formation program formally took four years. During that time, so many members of our parish have been supportive and encouraging. The people who attend daily Mass have welcomed me and helped me learn how to lead a liturgical celebration. Fr. Tony has provided unbelievable guidance and support. Vince LaTona has gone out of his way to give me opportunities to serve. I could go on and on.

Over the last few years, Missy and I have been overwhelmed by the number of parishioners who have randomly come up to us to encourage us, tell us they support us, and (most importantly) tell us they are praying for us. Those prayers have helped to open us up to God's love for us and His call to continue on the path toward becoming a deacon. I cannot tell you how much those prayers have meant to both of us. Please keep praying for us. I hope your prayers will allow me to serve the people of St. Anthony on the Lake parish in a way that helps each of them to feel my gratitude and God's great love for them. Thank you.

Register Now! Women of Christ Conference

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 18:50:47 GMT

Women of Christ Conference

All women are invited to celebrate the beauty of their Catholic faith at the annual Women of Christ Conference on Saturday, November 16, at the Brookfield Conference Center at 325 S. Moorland Road across from Brookfield Square.

The theme of this year’s conference is: Hail, Full of Grace. Join us as we unpack the astonishing richness of Mary as Virgin, Bride and Mother.

Come for a day of joy and camaraderie and be renewed and fortified in your faith! Take encouragement from dynamic speakers - Dr. Edward Sri, Sr. Mary Rachel Capets, OP, Fr. Michael Joseph Paris, OCD, Fr. Patrick Magnor, and Mary Magnor as MC. Take part in confession and Adoration and shop the vendor market for the perfect Christmas gifts. The day concludes with Vigil Mass celebrated by Archbishop Jerome Listecki. To register, contact your parish liaison, Julie Goyette at 262-343-1349 juliejeansuperstar@yahoo.com with any questions, or visit www.womenofchrist.net .

St. Anthony on the Lake Parishioners Attended the 10th National Eucharistic Congress

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 14:06:37 GMT

The 10th National Eucharistic Congress was a profound moment for the whole Church in the United States as our Catholic family united in prayer. 60,000 Catholics gathered in Indianapolis July 17-21, 2024 for this generational event, and countless more across the nation joined via livestream.‍ Here is a glimpse of the meaningful experiences of some of the St. Anthony on the Lake parishioners who attended.

See recordings of sessions from the congress and more at www.eucharisticcongress.org .

Matt and Laurie Ellis:

Every morning started with a Rosary with Fr Rocky from Relevant Radio, followed by Mass. It was awe inspiring to see the love of Jesus in the Eucharist shared by 60,000 people at Lucas Oil Stadium! The days continued with speakers, our favorites were Relevant Radio personalities and Dr. Edward Sri. Each evening we had more speakers (Fr. Mike Schmitz, Bishop Robert Barron, Jonathon Roumie to name a few) then an hour of adoration. 60,000 people were kneeling in concrete and silent! It was beautiful to witness true devotion to the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. We are forever changed!

Jeff and Suzi Ellington

We were blessed to have been invited to the Eucharistic Congress by our adult children. On Wednesday of that week we drove down to attend weekend sessions. Celebrating and witnessing how important the Eucharist is to our children was a true blessing.

A couple experiences stood out to us. We’ve never been to a Catholic Revival before, but the session Saturday night was incredibly moving…really beyond words. First, musician Matt Maher had 50,000+ people singing along with him and dancing to incredible praise music. We got to listen to several speakers including Bishop Robert Baron and Jonathan Roumie. Jonathan’s story of his journey to the Congress and his reading of the Bread of Life discourse from John 6 moved us to tears. Then during Eucharistic Adoration you could have heard a pin drop from across the stadium, it was so quiet. Just an amazing night!

It was also amazing to be at Sunday Mass for more than 50,000 Catholics and to hear from Cardinal Luis Tagle who came from Rome to deliver the homily. At the end of Mass, literally as were we standing up to leave, our son Jack got a call from a friend who told him he was converting to Catholicism. The Power of the Eucharist!

We encourage everyone to google National Eucharistic Congress speeches and find some time to listen to them. They are inspiring and beautiful messages.

Faith Formation News

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 17:03:26 GMT

Changes in Lifelong Faith Formation Staff for the 2024-2025 year!

We are pleased to share the news that Michelle Lukas has new responsibilities and a new title. She is now our Coordinator of First Communion, First Reconciliation and Child Ministry. Michelle will lead our preparation process and oversee, with the liturgy department, the celebration for our children receiving First Communion and First Reconciliation. Michelle will continue to be part of the staff for Family Program.

Debbie Kusch has decided to shift to a part-time schedule in order to spend more time with her family. We thank Debbie for her 25 years of leadership in this area. She will continue to be part of the leadership team for Family Program and other family ministries. Her new title is Coordinator of Family Ministry.

We are most grateful to both Debbie and Michelle for their generous and unselfish service to our parish and especially for the love and care they give our families.

Welcome Fr. Mark Payne, Our New Associate Pastor

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 20:17:43 GMT

Fr. Mark Payne’s journey to St. Anthony on the Lake.

My vocation journey began during my high school years at St. Lawrence Seminary at Mount Calvary, Wisconsin, where the seed was nurtured with prayer and discernment. My journey continued when I entered the College Formation Program at St. Francis De Sales Seminary while attending Marquette University. The strong relationships I forged during the formation program still exist today.

My spiritual journey has not been linear by any means. As my spiritual director has gently reminded me throughout the years, “God draws straight with crooked lines.” After continued discernment, my vocation journey took me to St. Norbert Abbey in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where I was ordained to the priesthood May 7, 1994. My 12 years at the abbey were filled with many blessings – from teaching theology and speech classes to leading retreats at Notre Dame de La Baie Academy. I concluded my time in Green Bay ministering to students at St. Norbert College’s Campus Ministry.

Prayer and discernment led me back to the Milwaukee Archdiocese as the assistant pastor at St. William Parish. Subsequently, I became pastor of St. Veronica Parish. After a brief but rewarding time as administrator of Our Lady Queen of Peace, I was appointed pastor of Blessed Sacrament. I have recently completed my assignment as pastor of St Monica and St. Eugene.

Throughout my 30 years of priesthood, I have been blessed with many joyful experiences. One experience in particular is my ministry with Heart of the Nation Television Mass. Heart of the Nation produces and televises weekly Sunday Mass nationwide, providing compassionate spiritual care for Catholics unable to participate in holy Mass at a parish. I am profoundly humbled by the countless number of parishioners who have shared with me how important the TV masses have been in lifting their spirits during their hospital stays or while recuperating from illnesses at home.

Here is a trivia question for you: Who is my largest television audience? You guessed correctly if you responded, “prison inmates.” Ministering to the prison population has been one of my most challenging experiences as a priest. I receive countless letters and emails from inmates reaching out to me for words of hope and encouragement. In fact, I am in regular contact with a man on death row in Florida. I pray with them. I listen to them. I learn from them. I am amazed at what the human spirit can endure and often find myself reflecting upon what St Paul endured while he was imprisoned. I am grateful to these inmates for enriching my priesthood. God really does work in mysterious ways!

Speaking of mysteries, who would have thought I would be a canon lawyer? Certainly not me! God may have blessed me with a strong intellect, but not good study habits. Reading scholarly articles and authoring research papers do not come naturally to me; however, I am grateful I accepted the Archbishop’s invitation to study canon law. As a result, I have had the good fortune of collaborating with the talented individuals in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee Tribunal as the Judicial Vicar and the privilege of rectifying situations that prevent Catholics from full and active participation in the life of the church.

As I author this article, my spiritual director’s words are at the forefront of my mind – “God draws straight with crooked lines.” I feel so blessed that God has called me to St. Anthony on the Lake. Your community is known fondly throughout the archdiocese. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with Fr. Tony, excited to join your faith community and looking forward to getting to know you. God Bless you!

Fr. Mark Payne

Associate Pastor

Palm Sunday: Walking Through Lent with Our Creator Scriptural Reflections

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 09:35:00 GMT

Read: Mark 14:1-15:47 and pray or journal: what word or phrase speaks to your emotion or intellect?

Read: the provided reflection (below) and pray or journal: what speaks to your emotion or intellect and what might you do?

She has done a good thing for me… She has done what she could. This unnamed woman, in abundant love, was supremely generous to Jesus, nevermind the cost, nevermind infuriating others. Can the same be said of me? How far am I willing to go, how much am I willing to do in response to the Holy Spirit’s call? Sometimes it just feels… flat: I’ve prayerfully made little sacrifices, small changes in my daily habits, but how does that result in much of anything at all?

Our faith tells us no matter how small my action, God magnifies every good thing and wastes nothing. “Personal climate action looks a lot like ripples expanding out from a pebble dropped in a pond.” The climate crisis we’re in now is not only going to be fixed with individual actions. But we aren’t only individuals. We’re part of communities, organizations, and systems. We can talk to others and listen to their views. We can advocate for change and watch the ripples expand.

I invite you to think of three people in your sphere of influence, share with them the importance of protecting our planet for the people we love, and implore them to exert their influence to make a bigger impact. Check out these tips for spreading the word! Blessings, Kate

5th Sunday: Walking Through Lent with Our Creator Scriptural Reflections

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 15:29:00 GMT

Read : John 11:1-45 and pray or journal: what word or phrase speaks to your emotion or intellect?

Read : the provided reflection (below) and pray or journal: what speaks to your emotion or intellect and what might you do?

The dead man came out tied hand and foot with burial bands… When I look around my closet I feel dread at all the stuff: some to keep and some to discard, some to fix (that I don’t know how to fix) or recycle (that I don’t know where to recycle). Worse, for every 1 ton of product purchased, 71 tons of waste was created to mine, manufacture, store, and transport it to market, including vast amounts of water. It clutters my closet and my heart, leaving me feeling positively bound and buried.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. Jesus is calling, “come out! untie her!” Untied by finding joy in relationships, experiences, and nature. Untied by prayerfully leaving items behind at the store, grateful for future time I won’t be spending organizing my closet. And someday, untied when our economy is circular like the eco-system God created, in which nothing is wasted.

I invite you to join me by decluttering this Lent (use this resource for hazardous waste and recycling tips), prayerfully considering purchases before making them, and while you’re at it, spread the word! Blessings, Kate

*This passage is from Year A readings, which are used when the scrutines are celebrated with the elect. If there are no elect, we will hear Year B readings proclaimed at Mass.

4th Sunday: Walking Through Lent with Our Creator Scriptural Reflecitons

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 15:26:00 GMT

Read: Psalm 23:1-6* and pray or journal: what word or phrase speaks to your emotion or intellect?

Read: the provided reflection (below) and pray or journal: what speaks to your emotion or intellect and what might you do?

Besides restful waters he leads me; he refreshes my soul… Whenever the lake near our house is as smooth as glass, I have to pause and admire it; in the midst of busy-ness or boredom, joy or frustration, it refreshes my soul. It’s amazing that God wants to do that for me. And God wants to do that for you too.

It’s easy to take water for granted, especially when it comes right out of the tap whenever I turn it on. I have 6 taps in my house, and for each I can choose hot or cold! Although 71% of the earth is covered in water, it is still important to conserve it in order to divert less from rivers, bays, and estuaries and reduce energy, pollution, and costs to treat, pump, and heat it.

I invite you to join me by trying one (or more) of these water saving tips, and while you’re at it, spread the word! Blessings, Kate

*This passage is from Year A readings, which are used when the scrutines are celebrated with the elect. If there are no elect, we will hear Year B readings proclaimed at Mass.

3rd Sunday: Walking Through Lent with Our Creator Scriptural Reflections

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 07:58:00 GMT

Read: Exodus 17:3-7* and pray or journal: what word or phrase speaks to your emotion or intellect?

Read: the provided reflection (below) and pray or journal: what speaks to your emotion or intellect and what might you do?

In their thirst for water, the people grumbled… After feeling concerned about possible PFAS in our drinking water, we recently installed a water filter. I’m not going to lie, it tastes amazing. Clean drinking water has been an issue on tap, so to speak, since before the days of Moses. And why shouldn’t it be? It comprises about 60% of our bodies and we can only live about 3 days without it. The good news is 73% of the global population has access to clean drinking water . The bad news is 27% don’t. It’s a worldwide issue, and also a local one: in Milwaukee, drinking water can contain lead , leading to all kinds of issues for children’s brain development. Water contamination could even make a person grumble.

Somewhere along the way we thought we’d quench our thirst with bottled water, but, while it may be convenient, this is a false solution. Unlike tap water, bottled water is not regulated , and the process of producing, transporting, distributing and disposing of bottles is harmful to our common home.

This Lent, I invite you to join me in learning about water contamination or bottled water from one of the sources linked above, and while you’re at it, spread the word! Blessings, Kate

*This passage is from Year A readings, which are used when the scrutines are celebrated with the elect. If there are no elect, we will hear Year B readings proclaimed at Mass.

2nd Sunday: Walking Through Lent with Our Creator Scriptural Reflections

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 07:46:00 GMT

Read: Mark 9:2-10 and pray or journal: what word or phrase speaks to your emotion or intellect?

Read: the provided reflection (below) and pray or journal: what speaks to your emotion or intellect and what might you do?

Let us make three tents… Sometimes I get stuck in a rut, and sometimes I get stuck on a mountaintop. Peter wants to “get stuck” when he suggests pitching tents; he wants to hang out and enjoy the scenery for a while. But there are things to do and places to be, so God rejects the tent idea. As a society, we’ve certainly been stuck - stuck depending on fossil fuels. In some ways it’s been a great view. After all, I enjoy lights and heat. But in other ways it’s definitely a rut. Either way, it’s time to move on. Did you know that 90 percent of the world’s electricity can and should come from renewable energy by 2050 ?

While that’s great news, I don’t want to sit around and wait for that to happen when my lights (likely powered by coal) and heat (powered by methane gas) are on right now. Luckily there are many ways I can reduce my energy use.

I invite you to join me by trying one (or more) of these energy saving tips , and while you’re at it, spread the word!

Blessings, Kate

1st Sunday: Walking Through Lent with Our Creator Scriptural Reflections

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 17:20:00 GMT

Read: Genesis 9:8-15 and pray or journal: what word or phrase speaks to your emotion or intellect?

Read: the provided reflection (below) and pray or journal: what speaks to your emotion or intellect and what might you do?

I will recall the covenant I have made between me and you and all living beings… Flooding, devastation, destruction. That’s what Noah witnessed and God promised would never happen again by God’s hand. God loved his creatures enough to begin anew with a covenant of love and hope. Yet “the excessive amount of land and water that people are using has killed 70% of terrestrial biodiversity and 50% of freshwater biodiversity” . Most of this land and water use is from agriculture: what we choose to eat and what we meant to eat but wasted instead.

In many traditions, Lent is a time of fasting and abstinence from food. For me, hunger reminds me of my dependence on God, calls me to prayer, and spiritually connects me with those without enough to eat. But what if I go deeper still, and acknowledge the toll my dietary choices take on our common home, and maybe even on my relationship with God? When I “eat lower on the food chain” by choosing vegetarian or chicken instead of red meat, or when I “treat meat as a condiment” I use significantly fewer resources. Meal planning and composting are also useful strategies I can use to reduce resource use and landfill emissions.

I invite you to join me in reducing food wate by checking out SaveTheFood.com , and while you're at it, spread the word!

Blessings, Kate

Ash Wednesday: Walking Through Lent with Our Creator Scriptural Reflections

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 06:51:00 GMT

Read: Joel 2:12-18 and pray or journal: what word or phrase speaks to your emotion or intellect?

Read: the provided reflection (below) and pray or journal: what speaks to your emotion or intellect and what might you do?

Rend your hearts… “This is a true and dire health emergency… huge levels of [a carcinogen] have just been found on top of the years of already unacceptable pollution we have been breathing,” Few people realize that single use plastics is not just about recycling and landfills. It’s not just about fossil fuels. It’s also about the real toll that pollution from plastic production takes on people like Robert Taylor in communities like The Mississippi River Chemical Corridor in Louisiana - a community commonly known as “Cancer Alley.”

Sometimes it’s a joy for me to avoid single use plastics: I don’t lug heavy water bottles home from the store, my trash can doesn’t overflow, and my laundry strips are far less messy than liquid detergent. But sometimes it’s inconvenient: when I forget my shopping bags and unload groceries one by one, when people give me and my reusable to-go containers funny glances, or when I bring my own plate and silverware to church events. Instead of viewing it as a hassle, I connect my faith with my actions and view it as a small sacrifice offered in prayer and thanksgiving. I’m not doing it alone either; I’m doing it for Robert Taylor. And maybe along the way, I’m rending my heart.

I invite you to join me in reducing your (single use) plastics. Check this out for ideas, and while you’re at it, spread the word!

Blessings, Kate

Welcome to Walking Through Lent with Our Creator - Scriptural Reflections

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 08:18:00 GMT

Welcome to our Lenten Scriptural Reflections on Creation Care! I am excited to journey through Lent together!

When God created the earth and all the living things (including us!), God called it “very good.” When we look to nature, we can see this goodness everywhere. When we receive a very good gift, it’s best to appreciate it, thank the giver, and take care of it… and that’s what Care for Creation is all about. We, Earth Ministry within Human Concerns, are excited to embark on this journey together, walking through Lent with our Creator. By subscribing or following our blog, you will be invited to join us each week to:

Read : the scripture selection identified for the Ash Wednesday or Sunday reading.

Pray or journal: what word or phrase speaks to your emotion or intellect?

Read: the provided reflection linking the scripture selection to creation care.

Pray or journal: what speaks to your emotion or intellect and what might you do?

Blessings,

Kate (Chair of Human Concerns)

Discourse Breaks Down at Family Dinner...

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 15:21:00 GMT

At a recent family dinner we asked for input from the kids about plans for an upcoming vacation… and it didn’t go well. With such high stakes of how to enjoy our togetherness, negotiations were fierce. "How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity" (Ps 133:1). Forced to temporarily pause from our intense negotiations, I dream of that pleasantness!

That Psalm was used in the introduction of the recent Synod document. Members of the synod further hoped that the “climate of mutual listening and sincere dialogue… will radiate in our communities and throughout the world.” I’m sure they also hope it radiates at my dinner table.

How are we to live in unity when differences abound on much weightier topics than family vacations? When increasingly we retreat into “safe” conversations or into conversations solely with people of the same opinion?

Our faith leaders are encouraging us to build a culture of dialogue, and one way we’re doing that at St. Anthony’s is by offering a workshop called “Resetting the Table” on the morning of Saturday Jan 13. The facilitator is coming to us from Texas and is a communication expert. During the workshop we’ll practice skills while growing in relationship and unity through meaningful conversations with one another. Advanced registration via MySal is required by December 20 . All registrants will be asked to complete a survey before the workshop. I hope to see you there!

Advent Blessings ~Kate

A Heart Like Solomon’s

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 14:19:00 GMT

If a genie granted you 3 wishes, what would you ask for? To win the lottery? World peace? A cure for cancer? How to pick just three!? In 1 Kings 3:5-12, Solomon asks for an understanding heart, and God is pleased. How can I, too, develop an understanding heart?

Maybe it starts with a sincere desire: a prayer. Ask and we shall receive, so to speak. Knock and the door will be opened. We can also deepen our hearts’ understanding through service. St Anthony’s offers many opportunities to connect with other parishioners while serving people experiencing the loss of a loved one, an illness, poverty, or homelessness. What better way to grow in understanding than by encountering others during difficult times like these? We invite you to get involved for a few minutes or a few hours, just once or regularly.

We also need understanding hearts when someone says something that gets under our skin or when controversies arise. It seems like we have become afraid to talk about things that matter in case someone disagrees; instead, we talk with people who agree with us and we end up in echo chambers. Studies show our country is more divided today than at any time since the Civil War. More than ever, we need hearts formed in Scripture, Sacraments, and Catholic Social Teaching. Hearts that slow down during heated moments to remember we are united as the Body of Christ. Hearts that listen to understand, not to respond or change someone, so the person we’re listening to feels understood. Our committee is providing several opportunities to learn and practice specific skills to bridge division and we invite you to join us:

I pray for understanding hearts, for all of us, as we go about our daily lives, and as we serve others. Please see the Human Concerns section of the website or bulletin for more information on more upcoming programing and volunteer opportunities. And if you want to connect with us directly, we would love to here from you at BurkeKLY@gmail.com .

Blessings,

Kate Burke

Human Concerns Committee Chair